U.S. patent application number 17/517916 was filed with the patent office on 2022-02-24 for systems and methods for providing air flow in a grow pod.
This patent application is currently assigned to Grow Solutions Tech LLC. The applicant listed for this patent is Grow Solutions Tech LLC. Invention is credited to Alan Ray Bentley, Michael Stephen Hurst, Gary Bret Millar, Mark Gerald Stott, Todd Garrett Tueller, Taylor John Woodbury.
Application Number | 20220053712 17/517916 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | |
Filed Date | 2022-02-24 |
United States Patent
Application |
20220053712 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Millar; Gary Bret ; et
al. |
February 24, 2022 |
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR PROVIDING AIR FLOW IN A GROW POD
Abstract
A controller for an air supplier of an assembly line grow pod is
provided. The controller identifies a plant on one or more carts;
determines an airflow rate based on an airflow recipe for the
identified plant; controls an air supplier to output air through
one or more outlet vents at the airflow rate; obtains an image of
the plant; identifies a type of contaminants deposited directly on
the plant based on the obtained image; and adjusts a power of the
air output from the air supplier to remove the contaminants from
the plant by the air based on the identified type of contaminants
deposited directly on the plant.
Inventors: |
Millar; Gary Bret;
(Highland, UT) ; Stott; Mark Gerald; (Eagle
Mountain, UT) ; Tueller; Todd Garrett; (American
Fork, UT) ; Hurst; Michael Stephen; (Framington,
UT) ; Bentley; Alan Ray; (Alpine, UT) ;
Woodbury; Taylor John; (Provo, UT) |
|
Applicant: |
Name |
City |
State |
Country |
Type |
Grow Solutions Tech LLC |
Vineyard |
UT |
US |
|
|
Assignee: |
Grow Solutions Tech LLC
Vineyard
UT
|
Appl. No.: |
17/517916 |
Filed: |
November 3, 2021 |
Related U.S. Patent Documents
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Application
Number |
Filing Date |
Patent Number |
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15969969 |
May 3, 2018 |
11191224 |
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17517916 |
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62519674 |
Jun 14, 2017 |
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62519304 |
Jun 14, 2017 |
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International
Class: |
A01G 13/08 20060101
A01G013/08; A01G 7/02 20060101 A01G007/02; A01G 31/04 20060101
A01G031/04; A01G 9/24 20060101 A01G009/24 |
Claims
1. A controller for an air supplier of an assembly line grow pod,
the controller comprising: one or more processors; one or more
memory modules storing lighting recipes; and machine readable
instructions stored in the one or more memory modules that, when
executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to:
identify a plant on one or more carts; determine an airflow rate
based on an airflow recipe for the identified plant; control an air
supplier to output air through one or more outlet vents at the
airflow rate; obtain an image of the plant; identify a type of
contaminants deposited directly on the plant based on the obtained
image; and adjust a power of the air output from the air supplier
to remove the contaminants from the plant by the air based on the
identified type of contaminants deposited directly on the
plant.
2. The controller of claim 1, wherein the machine readable
instructions stored in the one or more memory modules that, when
executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to
change a direction of the air exhausted from the one or more outlet
vents.
3. The controller of claim 1, wherein the machine readable
instructions stored in the one or more memory modules that, when
executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to:
receive data from one or more airflow sensors; and adjust the
airflow rate based on data received from the one or more airflow
sensors.
4. The controller of claim 1, wherein the machine readable
instructions stored in the one or more memory modules that, when
executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to:
receive an image of the plant captured by an imaging device;
process the captured image of the plant; and identify the plant
based on the processed image.
5. The airflow control system of claim 4, wherein the machine
readable instructions stored in the one or more memory modules,
when executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller
to update the airflow recipe for the plant and store the updated
airflow recipe in the one or more memory modules based on the
captured image of the plant.
6. The controller of claim 2, wherein the machine readable
instructions stored in the one or more memory modules, when
executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to
determine the direction of the air based on the identified plant.
Description
CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS
[0001] This application is a divisional application of U.S.
application Ser. No. 15/969,969 filed on May 3, 2018, which claims
the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application Nos. 62/519,674
and 62/519,304 all filed on Jun. 14, 2017, the entire contents of
which are herein incorporated by reference.
TECHNICAL FIELD
[0002] Embodiments described herein generally relate to systems and
methods for providing airflow in a grow pod and, more specifically,
to providing airflow in a grow pod using a HVAC or other
system.
BACKGROUND
[0003] While crop growth technologies have advanced over the years,
there are still many problems in the farming and crop industry
today. As an example, while technological advances have increased
efficiency and production of various crops, many factors may affect
a harvest, such as weather, disease, infestation, and the like.
Additionally, while the United States currently has suitable
farmland to adequately provide food for the U.S. population, other
countries and future populations may not have enough farmland to
provide the appropriate amount of food.
[0004] For an indoor crop growth system, fungus, spores, and other
undesirable contaminants may adhere to crops and damage crop
production. Thus, a system for providing airflow in an indoor
growing system that prevents contaminants from adhering to the
crops may be needed.
SUMMARY
[0005] In one embodiment, a controller for an air supplier of an
assembly line grow pod is provided. The controller identifies a
plant on one or more carts; determines an airflow rate based on an
airflow recipe for the identified plant; controls an air supplier
to output air through one or more outlet vents at the airflow rate;
obtains an image of the plant; identifies a type of contaminants
deposited directly on the plant based on the obtained image; and
adjusts a power of the air output from the air supplier to remove
the contaminants from the plant by the air based on the identified
type of contaminants deposited directly on the plant.
[0006] These and additional features provided by the embodiments
described herein will be more fully understood in view of the
following detailed description, in conjunction with the
drawings.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0007] The embodiments set forth in the drawings are illustrative
and exemplary in nature and not intended to limit the disclosure.
The following detailed description of the illustrative embodiments
can be understood when read in conjunction with the following
drawings, where like structure is indicated with like reference
numerals and in which:
[0008] FIG. 1 depicts an assembly line grow pod that receives a
plurality of industrial casts, according to embodiments described
herein;
[0009] FIG. 2 depicts an external shell of an assembly line grow
pod according to embodiments described herein;
[0010] FIG. 3A depicts an industrial cart for coupling to a track,
according to embodiments described herein;
[0011] FIG. 3B depicts a plurality of industrial carts in an
assembly line configuration, according to embodiments described
herein;
[0012] FIG. 4 depicts an assembly grow pod including a HVAC system
configured to control airflow for the assembly line grow pod,
according to embodiments described herein;
[0013] FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart for controlling airflow for the
assembly line grow pod, according to embodiments described
herein;
[0014] FIG. 6 depicts adjusting airflow direction of the HVAC
system, according to one or more embodiments described herein;
[0015] FIG. 7 depicts generating airflow in an assembly line grow
pod, according to one or more embodiments shown and described
herein;
[0016] FIG. 8 depicts generating airflow in an assembly line grow
pod, according to one or more embodiments shown and described
herein;
[0017] FIG. 9 depicts generating airflow in an assembly line grow
pod, according to one or more embodiments shown and described
herein; and
[0018] FIG. 10 depicts a computing device for an assembly line grow
pod, according to embodiments described herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
[0019] Embodiments disclosed herein include systems and methods for
providing airflow in a grow pod. The air flow control system
includes a shell including an enclosed area, one or more carts
moving on a track within the enclosed area, an air supplier within
the enclosed area, one or more outlet vents coupled to the air
supplier, and a controller. The controller includes one or more
processors, one or more memory modules, and machine readable
instructions stored in the one or more memory modules that, when
executed by the one or more processors, cause the controller to:
identify a plant on the one or more carts, determine an airflow
rate based on an airflow recipe for the identified plant, and
control the air supplier to output air through the one or more
outlet vents at the airflow rate. The systems and methods for
providing airflow in a grow pod incorporating the same will be
described in more detail, below.
[0020] Referring now to the drawings, FIG. 1 depicts an assembly
line grow pod 100 that receives a plurality of industrial carts
104, according to embodiments described herein. The assembly line
grow pod 100 may be positioned on an x-y plane as shown in FIG. 1.
As illustrated, the assembly line grow pod 100 may include a track
102 that holds one or more industrial carts 104. Each of the one or
more industrial carts 104, as described in more detail with
reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B, may include one or more wheels 222a,
222b, 222c, and 222d rotatably coupled to the industrial cart 104
and supported on the track 102, as described in more detail with
reference to FIGS. 3A and 3B.
[0021] Additionally, a drive motor is coupled to the industrial
cart 104. In some embodiments, the drive motor may be coupled to at
least one of the one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d such
that the industrial cart 104 may be propelled along the track 102
in response to a signal transmitted to the drive motor. In other
embodiments, the drive motor may be rotatably coupled to the track
102. For example, without limitation, the drive motor may be
rotatably coupled to the track 102 through one or more gears which
engage a plurality of teeth arranged along the track 102 such that
the industrial cart 104 may be propelled along the track 102.
[0022] The track 102 may consist of a plurality of modular track
sections. The plurality of modular track sections may include a
plurality of straight modular track sections and a plurality of
curved modular track sections. The track 102 may include an
ascending portion 102a, a descending portion 102b, and a connection
portion 102c. The ascending portion 102a and the descending
portions 102b may include the plurality of curved modular track
sections. The ascending portion 102a may wrap around (e.g., in a
counterclockwise direction as depicted in FIG. 1) a first axis such
that the industrial carts 104 ascend upward in a vertical
direction. The first axis may be parallel to the z axis as shown in
FIG. 1 (i.e., perpendicular to the x-y plane). The plurality of
curved modular track sections of the ascending portion 102a may be
tilted relative to the x-y plane (i.e., the ground) by a
predetermined angle.
[0023] The descending portion 102b may be wrapped around a second
axis (e.g., in a counterclockwise direction as depicted in FIG. 1)
that is substantially parallel to the first axis, such that the
industrial carts 104 may be returned closer to ground level. The
plurality of curved modular track sections of the descending
portion 102b may be tilted relative to the x-y plane (i.e., the
ground) by a predetermined angle.
[0024] The connection portion 102c may include a plurality of
straight modular track sections. The connection portion 102c may be
relatively level with respect to the x-y plane (although this is
not a requirement) and is utilized to transfer the industrial carts
104 from the ascending portion 102a to the descending portion 102b.
In some embodiments, a second connection portion (not shown in FIG.
1) may be positioned near ground level that couples the descending
portion 102b to the ascending portion 102a such that the industrial
carts 104 may be transferred from the descending portion 102b to
the ascending portion 102a. The second connection portion may
include a plurality of straight modular track sections.
[0025] In some embodiments, the track 102 may include two or more
parallel rails that support the industrial cart 104 via the one or
more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d rotatably coupled thereto.
In some embodiments, at least two of the parallel rails of the
track 102 are electrically conductive, thus capable of transmitting
communication signals and/or power to and from the industrial cart
104. In yet other embodiments, a portion of the track 102 is
electrically conductive and a portion of the one or more wheels
222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d are in electrical contact with the
portion of the track 102 which is electrically conductive. In some
embodiments, the track 102 may be segmented into more than one
electrical circuit. That is, the electrically conductive portion of
the track 102 may be segmented with a non-conductive section such
that a first electrically conductive portion of the track 102 is
electrically isolated from a second electrically conductive portion
of the track 102 which is adjacent to the first electrically
conductive portion of the track 102.
[0026] The communication signals and power may further be received
and/or transmitted via the one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and
222d of the industrial cart 104 and to and from various components
of industrial cart 104, as described in more detail herein. Various
components of the industrial cart 104, as described in more detail
herein, may include the drive motor, the control device, and one or
more sensors.
[0027] In some embodiments, the communication signals and power
signals may include an encoded address specific to an industrial
cart 104 and each industrial cart 104 may include a unique address
such that multiple communication signals and power may be
transmitted over the same track 102 and received and/or executed by
their intended recipient. For example, the assembly line grow pod
100 system may implement a digital command control system (DCC).
DDC systems encode a digital packet having a command and an address
of an intended recipient, for example, in the form of a pulse width
modulated signal that is transmitted along with power to the track
102.
[0028] In such a system, each industrial cart 104 includes a
decoder, which may be the control device coupled to the industrial
cart 104, designated with a unique address. When the decoder
receives a digital packet corresponding to its unique address, the
decoder executes the embedded command. In some embodiments, the
industrial cart 104 may also include an encoder, which may be the
control device coupled to the industrial cart 104, for generating
and transmitting communications signals from the industrial cart
104, thereby enabling the industrial cart 104 to communicate with
other industrial carts 104 positioned along the track 102 and/or
other systems or computing devices communicatively coupled with the
track 102.
[0029] While the implementation of a DCC system is disclosed herein
as an example of providing communication signals along with power
to a designated recipient along a common interface (e.g., the track
102) any system and method capable of transmitting communication
signals along with power to and from a specified recipient may be
implemented. For example, in some embodiments, digital data may be
transmitted over AC circuits by utilizing a zero-cross, step,
and/or other communication protocol.
[0030] Additionally, while not explicitly illustrated in FIG. 1,
the assembly line grow pod 100 may also include a harvesting
component, a tray washing component, and other systems and
components coupled to and/or in-line with the track 102. In some
embodiments, the assembly line grow pod 100 may include a plurality
of lighting devices, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs). The
lighting devices may be disposed on the track 102 opposite the
industrial carts 104, such that the lighting devices direct light
waves to the industrial carts 104 on the portion the track 102
directly below. In some embodiments, the lighting devices are
configured to create a plurality of different colors and/or
wavelengths of light, depending on the application, the type of
plant being grown, and/or other factors. Each of the plurality of
lighting devices may include a unique address such that a master
controller 106 may communicate with each of the plurality of
lighting devices. While in some embodiments, LEDs are utilized for
this purpose, this is not a requirement. Any lighting device that
produces low heat and provides the desired functionality may be
utilized.
[0031] Also depicted in FIG. 1 is a master controller 106. The
master controller 106 may include a computing device 130, a
nutrient dosing component, a water distribution component, and/or
other hardware for controlling various components of the assembly
line grow pod 100. In some embodiments, the master controller 106
and/or the computing device 130 are communicatively coupled to a
network 550 (as depicted and further described with reference to
FIG. 4). The master controller 106 may control operations of the
HVAC system 310 shown in FIG. 4, which will be described in detail
below.
[0032] Coupled to the master controller 106 is a seeder component
108. The seeder component 108 may be configured to seed one or more
industrial carts 104 as the industrial carts 104 pass the seeder in
the assembly line. Depending on the particular embodiment, each
industrial cart 104 may include a single section tray for receiving
a plurality of seeds. Some embodiments may include a multiple
section tray for receiving individual seeds in each section (or
cell). In the embodiments with a single section tray, the seeder
component 108 may detect presence of the respective industrial cart
104 and may begin laying seed across an area of the single section
tray. The seed may be laid out according to a desired depth of
seed, a desired number of seeds, a desired surface area of seeds,
and/or according to other criteria. In some embodiments, the seeds
may be pre-treated with nutrients and/or anti-buoyancy agents (such
as water) as these embodiments may not utilize soil to grow the
seeds and thus might need to be submerged.
[0033] In the embodiments where a multiple section tray is utilized
with one or more of the industrial carts 104, the seeder component
108 may be configured to individually insert seeds into one or more
of the sections of the tray. Again, the seeds may be distributed on
the tray (or into individual cells) according to a desired number
of seeds, a desired area the seeds should cover, a desired depth of
seeds, etc. In some embodiments, the seeder component 108 may
communicate the identification of the seeds being distributed to
the master controller 106.
[0034] The watering component may be coupled to one or more water
lines 110, which distribute water and/or nutrients to one or more
trays at predetermined areas of the assembly line grow pod 100. In
some embodiments, seeds may be sprayed to reduce buoyancy and then
flooded. Additionally, water usage and consumption may be
monitored, such that at subsequent watering stations, this data may
be utilized to determine an amount of water to apply to a seed at
that time.
[0035] Also depicted in FIG. 1 are airflow lines 112. Specifically,
the master controller 106 may include and/or be coupled to one or
more components that delivers airflow for temperature control,
humidity control, pressure control, carbon dioxide control, oxygen
control, nitrogen control, etc. Accordingly, the airflow lines 112
may distribute the airflow at predetermined areas in the assembly
line grow pod 100. For example, the airflow lines 112 may extend to
each story of the ascending portion 102a and the descending portion
102b.
[0036] It should be understood that while some embodiments of the
track may be configured for use with a grow pod, such as that
depicted in FIG. 1, this is merely an example. The track and track
communications are not so limited and can be utilized for any track
system where communication is desired.
[0037] Referring now to FIG. 2 depicts an external shell 200 of the
assembly line grow pod 100 of FIG. 1 according to embodiments
described herein. As illustrated, the external shell 200 contains
the assembly line grow pod 100 inside, maintains an environment
inside, and prevents the external environment from entering. The
external shell 200 includes a roof portion 214 and a side wall
portion 216. In some embodiments, the roof portion 214 may include
photoelectric cells that may generate electric power by receiving
sunlight. In some embodiments, the roof portion 214 may include one
or more wind turbines 212 that may generate electric power using
wind power. Coupled to the external shell 200 is a control panel
219 with a user input/output device 218, such as a touch screen,
monitor, keyboard, mouse, etc.
[0038] The air inside the external shell 200 may be maintained
independent of the air outside of the external shell 200. For
example, the temperature of the air inside the external shell 200
may be different from the temperature of the air outside the
external shell 200. The external shell 200 may be made of
insulating material that prevents heat from transferring between
outside and inside of the external shell 200. Airflow outside the
external shell 200 does not affect the airflow inside the external
shell 200. For example, the wind speed of the air inside the
external shell 200 may be different from the wind speed of the air
outside the external shell 200. The air inside the external shell
200 may include nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases,
the proportions of which are similar to the proportions of the air
outside the external shell 200. In some embodiments, the
proportions of nitrogen, oxygen, carbon dioxide, and other gases
inside the external shell 200 may be different from the proportions
of the air outside the external shell 200. The dimensions of the
air inside the external shell 200 may be less than, 10,000 cubic
feet, for example, about 4,000 cubic feet.
[0039] FIG. 3A depicts an industrial cart 104 that may be utilized
for the assembly line grow pod 100, according to embodiments
described herein. As illustrated, the industrial cart 104 includes
a tray section 220 and one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and
222d. The one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d may be
configured to rotatably couple with the track 102, as well as
receive power, from the track 102. The track 102 may additionally
be configured to facilitate communication with the industrial cart
104 through the one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d.
[0040] In some embodiments, one or more components may be coupled
to the tray section 220. For example, a drive motor 226, a cart
computing device 228, and/or a payload 230 may be coupled to the
tray section 220 of the industrial cart 104. The tray section 220
may additionally include a payload 230. Depending on the particular
embodiment, the payload 230 may be configured as plants (such as in
an assembly line grow pod 100); however this is not a requirement,
as any payload 230 may be utilized.
[0041] The drive motor 226 may be configured as an electric motor
and/or any device capable of propelling the industrial cart 104
along the track 102. For example, without limitation, the drive
motor 226 may be configured as a stepper motor, an alternating
current (AC) or direct current (DC) brushless motor, a DC brushed
motor, or the like. In some embodiments, the drive motor 226 may
comprise electronic circuitry which may adjust the operation of the
drive motor 226 in response to a communication signal (e.g., a
command or control signal) transmitted to and received by the drive
motor 226. The drive motor 226 may be coupled to the tray section
220 of the industrial cart 104 or directly coupled to the
industrial cart 104.
[0042] In some embodiments, the cart computing device 228 may
control the drive motor 226 in response to a leading sensor 232, a
trailing sensor 234, and/or an orthogonal sensor 242 included on
the industrial cart 104. Each of the leading sensor 232, the
trailing sensor 234, and the orthogonal sensor 242 may comprise an
infrared sensor, visual light sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, a
pressure sensor, a proximity sensor, a motion sensor, a contact
sensor, an image sensor, an inductive sensor (e.g., a magnetometer)
or other type of sensor. The cart 104 may include an airflow sensor
236.
[0043] In some embodiments, the leading sensor 232, the trailing
sensor 234, airflow sensor 236, and/or the orthogonal sensor 242
may be communicatively coupled to the master controller 106 (FIG.
1). In some embodiments, for example, the leading sensor 232, the
trailing sensor 234, the airflow sensor 236, and the orthogonal
sensor 242 may generate one or more signals that may be transmitted
via the one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d and the track
102 (FIG. 1). In some embodiments, the track 102 and/or the
industrial cart 104 may be communicatively coupled to a network 550
(FIG. 4). Therefore, the one or more signals may be transmitted to
the master controller 106 via the network 550 over network
interface hardware 634 (FIG. 10) or the track 102 and in response,
the master controller 106 may return a control signal to the drive
motor 226 for controlling the operation of one or more drive motors
226 of one or more industrial carts 104 positioned on the track
102. In some embodiments, the master controller 106 may control the
operation of the HVAC system 310 to adjust airflow from the vent
304 shown in FIG. 3B. For example, the master controller 106
receives information on the airflow detected by the airflow sensor
236 and controls the operation of the HVAC system 310 to adjust the
speed of airflow from the vent 304.
[0044] While FIG. 3A depicts the airflow sensor 236 positioned
generally above the industrial cart 104, as previously stated, the
airflow sensor 236 may be coupled with the industrial cart 104 in
any location which allows the airflow sensor 236 to detect the
airflow above and/or below the industrial cart 104.
[0045] In some embodiments, location markers 224 may be placed
along the track 102 or the supporting structures to the track 102
at pre-defined intervals. The orthogonal sensor 242, for example,
without limitation, comprises a photo-eye type sensor and may be
coupled to the industrial cart 104 such that the photo-eye type
sensor may view the location markers 224 positioned along the track
102 below the industrial cart 104. As such, the cart computing
device 228 and/or master controller 106 may receive one or more
signals generated from the photo-eye in response to detecting a
location marker 224 as the industrial cart travels along the track
102. The cart computing device 228 and/or master controller 106,
from the one or more signals, may determine the speed of the
industrial cart 104. The speed information may be transmitted to
the master controller 106 via the network 550 over network
interface hardware 634 (FIG. 10).
[0046] FIG. 3B depicts a partial view of the assembly line grow pod
100 shown in FIG. 1, according to embodiments described herein. As
illustrated, the industrial cart 204b is depicted as being
similarly configured as the industrial cart 104 from FIG. 3A.
However, in the embodiment of FIG. 3B, the industrial cart 204b is
disposed on a track 102. As discussed above, at least a portion of
the one or more wheels 222a, 222b, 222c, and 222d (or other portion
of the industrial cart 204b) may couple with the track 102 to
receive communication signals and/or power.
[0047] Also depicted in FIG. 3B are a leading cart 204a and a
trailing cart 204c. As the industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c
are moving along the track 102, the leading sensor 232b and the
trailing sensor 234b may detect the trailing cart 204c and the
leading cart 204a, respectively, and maintain a predetermined
distance from the trailing cart 204c and the leading cart 204a.
[0048] As shown in FIG. 1, the airflow line 112 extends on every
floor of the assembly line grow pod 100. The airflow line 112 may
include a plurality of vents 304 each of which is configured to
output airflow on each story of the assembly line grow pod 100.
FIG. 3B depicts a partial view of the airflow line 112 including
the vent 304. The vent 304 shown in FIG. 3B is configured to output
air as indicated by arrows. The airflow line 112 is connected to
the HVAC system 310 which controls the output of the airflow from
the vent 304. The assembly line grow pod 100 and a HVAC system 310
are placed inside the external shell 200 of FIG. 2. The HVAC system
310 operates inside the external shell 200 and may be configured to
control temperature, humidity, molecules, flow of the air inside
the external shell 200. The dimensions of the air inside the
external shell 200 may be less than, 10,000 cubic feet, for
example, about 4,000 cubic feet. The HVAC system 310 may be
optimized for the dimension of the air inside the external shell
200.
[0049] The airflow output from the vent 304 proceeds in a direction
opposite to the moving direction of the industrial carts 204a,
204b, and 204c. The airflow passes through the payload 230 on the
industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c to prevent spores and other
contaminants from adhering to the payload 230. The airflow sensors
236a, 236b, and 236c may detect airflow on each of the industrial
carts 204a, 204b, and 204c, and transmit airflow information to the
master controller 106. The master controller 106 controls the
operation of the HVAC system 310 to increase, decrease, or maintain
the airflow output from the vent 304 based on the airflow
information received from the airflow sensors 236a, 236b, and 236c.
In embodiments, the master controller 106 may identify payload 230
on the carts 204a, 204b, and 204c, and control the operation of the
HVAC system 310 based on the airflow recipe for the identified
payload.
[0050] Still referring to FIG. 3B, a location marker 224 is coupled
to the track 102. Although the location marker 224 is depicted as
being coupled to the underside of the track 102 above the
industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c, the location marker 224 may
be positioned in any location capable of indicating a unique
section of the track 102 to the industrial carts 204a, 204b, and
204c.
[0051] The location marker 224 may include a communication portal
and may be configured to communicate with the any of the orthogonal
sensors 242a, 242b, and 242c. The location marker 224 may comprise
an infrared emitter, a bar code, a QR code or other marker capable
of indicating a unique location. That is, the location marker 224
may be an active device or a passive device for indicating a
location on along the track 102. In some embodiments, the location
marker 224 may emit infrared light or visual light at a unique
frequency that may be identifiable by the orthogonal sensors 242a,
242b, and 242c.
[0052] In some embodiments, the location marker 224 may require
line of sight and thus will communicate with the one or more
industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c that are within that range.
Regardless, the respective industrial cart 204a, 204b, 204c may
communicate data detected from cart sensors, including the leading
sensor 232, the trailing sensor 234, the airflow sensor 236 and/or
other sensors. Additionally, the master controller 106 may provide
data and/or commands for use by the industrial carts 204a, 204b,
and 204c via the location marker 224. In some embodiments, the one
or more industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c may communicate their
current location to the master controller 106 by reading the
location markers 224.
[0053] In operation, for example, the location marker 224 may
designate a unique location along the track 102. As the industrial
cart 204b passes in proximity to the location marker 224, the
orthogonal sensor 242b may register the unique location (e.g.,
detect the location marker 224, which is a detected event). By
determining the location of the industrial cart 204b along the
track 102 from the detected location marker 224 and determining the
unique location which the location marker 224 represents, the
position of the industrial cart 204b with respect to other
industrial carts 204a, 204c may be determined and other functional
attributes of the industrial cart 204b may also be determined. For
example, the speed of the industrial cart 204b may be determined
based on the time that elapses between two unique locations along
the track 102 where the distance between the locations is known.
Additionally, through communication with the master controller 106
or with the other industrial carts, distances between the
industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c may be determined and in
response the drive motors 226 may be adjusted as necessary.
[0054] In some embodiments, the master controller 106 receives the
speed information about the industrial carts 204a, 204b, and 204c,
and controls the operation of the HVAC system 310 to adjust the
speed of air flow form the vent 304. For example, if the industrial
carts 204a, 204b, and 204c stop moving on the track 102, the master
controller 106 may instruct the HVAC system 310 to increase the
speed of the airflow output from the vent 304 such that the airflow
output from the vent 304 prevents spores and other contaminants
from adhering to the payload 230. If the industrial carts 204a,
204b, and 204b move at a speed that is greater that a predetermined
speed, the master controller 106 may instruct the HVAC system 310
to decrease the speed of the airflow output from the vent 304 or
stop the airflow from the vent 304.
[0055] Still referring to FIG. 3B, one or more imaging devices 250
may be placed at the bottom of the track 102. The one or more
imaging device 250 may be placed throughout the track 102 including
the ascending portion 102a, the descending portion 102b, and the
connection portion 102c. The one or more imaging devices 250 may be
any device having an array of sensing components (e.g., pixels)
capable of detecting radiation in an ultraviolet wavelength band, a
visible light wavelength band, or an infrared wavelength band. The
one or more imaging devices 250 may have any resolution. The one or
more imaging devices 250 are communicatively coupled to the master
controller 106. For example, the one or more imaging devices 250
may be hardwired to the master controller 106 and/or may wirelessly
communicate with the master controller 106. The one or more imaging
devices 250 may capture an image of the payload 230 and transmit
the captured image to the master controller 106. The master
controller 106 may analyze the captured image to determine the
status of the payload 230. For example, the master controller 106
may determine the stage of growth for the payload 230 based on the
analysis of the captured image, for example, a level of chlorophyll
production, fruit output, foliage, etc. The master controller 106
may identify the size and color of the payload 230 by analyzing the
captured image and determine the stage of growth for the payload
230 based on the size and color of the payload 230.
[0056] In some embodiments, the master controller 106 may receive
images of payload 230 from the imaging device 250 and process the
images to determine whether spores or other contaminants are
deposited to the payload 230. If it is determined that spores or
other contaminants are deposited to the payload 230 of a certain
industrial cart (e.g., the industrial cart 204b), then the master
controller 106 may instruct the HVAC system 310 to increase the
airflow from the vent 304 when the industrial cart 204b is
proximate to the vent 304, such that the spores or other
contaminants may be blown away. In some embodiments, the master
controller 106 may receive images of payload 230 from the imaging
device 250 and process the images to determine the type of spores
or contaminants. The master controller 106 may instruct the HVAC
system 310 to adjust a power and/or direction of the airflow from
the vent 304 based on the identified type of spores or
contaminants.
[0057] FIG. 4 depicts air flow control system, according to one or
more embodiments shown and described herein. The assembly line grow
pod 100 and a HVAC system 310 are placed inside the external shell
200 of FIG. 2. The HVAC system 310 operates inside the external
shell 200 and may be configured to control temperature, humidity,
molecules, flow of the air inside the external shell 200. The
dimensions of the air inside the external shell 200 may be less
than, 10,000 cubic feet, for example, about 4,000 cubic feet. The
HVAC system 310 may be optimized for the dimension of the air
inside the external shell 200.
[0058] As illustrated in FIG. 4, the assembly line grow pod 100 may
include the master controller 106, which may include the computing
device 130. The computing device 130 may include a memory component
540, which stores systems logic 544a and plant logic 544b. As
described in more detail below, the systems logic 544a may monitor
and control operations of one or more of the components of the
assembly line grow pod 100. For example, the systems logic 544a may
monitor and control operations of the HVAC system 310. The plant
logic 544b may be configured to determine and/or receive a recipe
for plant growth and may facilitate implementation of the recipe
via the systems logic 544a. For example, the recipe may include
airflow recipes for plants, and the systems logic 544a operates the
HVAC system 310 based on the airflow recipes.
[0059] The assembly line grow pod 100 monitors the growth of plants
carried in the carts 104, and the recipe for plant growth may be
updated based on the growth of plants. For example, the airflow
recipes for plants may be updated by monitoring the growth of those
plants carried in the carts 104.
[0060] Additionally, the assembly line grow pod 100 is coupled to a
network 550. The network 550 may include the internet or other wide
area network, a local network, such as a local area network, a near
field network, such as Bluetooth or a near field communication
(NFC) network. The network 550 is also coupled to a user computing
device 552 and/or a remote computing device 554. The user computing
device 552 may include a personal computer, laptop, mobile device,
tablet, server, etc. and may be utilized as an interface with a
user. As an example, a user may send a recipe to the computing
device 130 for implementation by the assembly line grow pod 100.
Another example may include the assembly line grow pod 100 sending
notifications to a user of the user computing device 552.
[0061] Similarly, the remote computing device 554 may include a
server, personal computer, tablet, mobile device, etc. and may be
utilized for machine to machine communications. As an example, if
the assembly line grow pod 100 determines a type of seed being used
(and/or other information, such as ambient conditions), the
computing device 130 may communicate with the remote computing
device 554 to retrieve a previously stored recipe for those
conditions. As such, some embodiments may utilize an application
program interface (API) to facilitate this or other
computer-to-computer communications.
[0062] The HVAC system 310 may be connected to a plurality of
airflow lines 112.
[0063] Each of the airflow lines 112 may include a plurality of
vents 304. Each of the plurality of vents 304 is configured to
output air. In embodiments, the plurality of vents 304 may
correspond to the carts 104 on each floor of the assembly line grow
pod 100, as shown in FIG. 4. In some embodiments, the plurality of
vents 304 may be placed at different locations. For example, the
plurality of vents 304 may be placed at the top of the assembly
line grow pod 100. As another example, the plurality of vents 304
may be placed at the bottom of the assembly line grow pod 100, and
output air through a central axis of the ascending portion 102a or
the descending portion 102b.
[0064] The HVAC system 310 may output air through the plurality of
vents 304 according to an airflow recipe for plants. An airflow
speed may be detected by one or more airflow sensors 236. The one
or more airflow sensors 236 may be located on each of the
industrial carts 104, or at any other locations within the external
shell 200. In some embodiments, one or more airflow sensors may be
located within the airflow lines 112. The one or more airflow
sensors 236 may be wired to or wirelessly coupled to the master
controller 106. For example, the one or more airflow sensors 236
may wirelessly transmit the detected airflow to the master
controller 106 via the network 350. The master controller 106
compares the current airflow speed with the airflow recipe for
plants. For example, if the current airflow is 9 milliliters per
second, and the airflow recipe for plants is 11 millimeters per
second, the master controller 106 instructs the HVAC system 310 to
increase the airflow to be 11 millimeters per second.
[0065] The HVAC system 310 may output air through the plurality of
vents 304 or input air through vents 304 to generate airflow within
the external shell 200. In embodiments, the HVAC system 310 may
output air through the plurality of vents 304 to create a
predetermined airflow to the plants. The airflow recipes for plants
may be stored in the plant logic 544b of the memory component 540
(and/or in the plant data 638b from FIG. 10) and the master
controller 106 may retrieve the airflow recipes from the plant
logic 544b. For example, the plant logic 544b may include airflow
recipes for plants as shown in Table 1 below.
TABLE-US-00001 TABLE 1 Airflow rate Plant A 13 milliliters per
second Plant B 25 milliliters per second Plant C 9 milliliters per
second Plant D 5 milliliters per second Plant E 11 milliliters per
second
[0066] The master controller 106 may identify the plants in the
carts 204. For example, the master controller 106 may communicate
with the carts 204 and receive information about the plants in the
carts 204. As another example, the information about the plants in
the carts 204 may be pre-stored in the master controller 106 when
the seeder component 108 seeds plant A in the carts 204.
[0067] The master controller 106 may control the HVAC system 310
based on the identified plants. For example, if the current plants
in the assembly line grow pod 100 are identified as plant B, then
the master controller 106 controls the HVAC system 310 to output
airflow at a rate of 25 milliliters per second toward the plants B
based on the airflow recipe for plant B. In embodiments, the
airflow recipes for plants may be updated based on information on
harvested plants. For example, if the harvested plants A are
generally less sturdy than ideal plants A, the airflow rate for
plants A may be increased to further strengthen plants A that are
to be harvested. In some embodiments, the plurality of vents 304
may be configured to output air at different speeds based on the
plants proximate to the plurality of vents 304. Each of the vents
304 may include a valve that controls the speed of the air output
therefrom. For example, one vent 304 may output air at the rate of
9 millimeters per second when plants C are proximate to the vent
304 while another vent 304 may output air at the rate of 11
millimeters per second when plants E are proximate to the another
vent 304.
[0068] In some embodiment, the master controller 106 may receive an
airflow rate from the user computing device 552. For example, an
operator inputs an airflow rate for plants currently growing in the
assembly line grow pod 100, and the master controller 106 receives
the airflow rate and operates the HVAC system 310 based on the
received airflow rate.
[0069] The airflow provided by the HVAC system 310 serves various
purposes. For example, the airflow strengthens the plants as they
grow. The appropriate airflow rate for strengthening each of
different plants may be stored as an airflow recipe for each of the
plants, for example, as Table 1 above, and the master controller
106 adjusts the airflow rate output from the plurality of vents 304
based on the airflow recipe. As another example, the airflow may
prevent spores or other contaminants from adhering to the plants on
the industrial carts 104. As another example, the airflow may
provide additional carbon dioxide and/or other molecules to the
plants. The airflow may provide circulate the air inside the
external shell 200 such that gases including carbon dioxide are
adequately provided to the plants. As another example, the airflow
may dry or dampen the plants depending on the humidity of the air.
An airflow containing low humidity may dry plants and an airflow
containing high humidity dampens the plants.
[0070] FIG. 5 depicts a flowchart for providing airflow in the
assembly line grow pod, according to one or more embodiments
described herein. As illustrated in block 510, the master
controller 106 identifies plants being carried in carts 204. For
example, an operator inputs the type of seeds for plants that need
to be grown in the carts through the user computing device 552, and
the master controller 106 receives the type of seeds for plants
from the user computing device 852. As another example, the master
controller 106 may obtain identification of plants from the seeder
component 108 that seeds the plants in the carts. As another
example, the master controller 106 may receive images of plants
captured by the one or more imaging devices 250 and process the
images to identify the plants.
[0071] In block 520, the master controller 106 retrieves an airflow
recipe based on the identified plants in the carts. In embodiments,
the airflow recipe may be pre-stored in the plant logic 544b of the
master controller 106. In some embodiments, the airflow recipe may
be entered by an operator through the user computing device 552,
and the master controller 106 receives the airflow recipe from the
user computing device 552. In some embodiments, the airflow recipe
may be stored in the remote computing device 554, and the master
controller 106 retrieves the airflow recipe from the remote
computing device 554. In block 530, the master controller 106
instructs the HVAC system 310 to output air at a certain airflow
rate based on the airflow recipe. In some embodiments, the master
controller 106 instructs the HVAC system 402 to output air at a
certain direction based on the airflow recipe.
[0072] FIG. 6 depicts adjusting airflow direction of the HVAC
system 310, according to one or more embodiments described herein.
The vents 304 may output airflow in various directions. For
example, as shown in FIG. 6, the vents 304 may output airflow in a
first direction 406a that is directed to the top of the plants, in
a second direction 406b that is directed to the middle of the
plants, or in a third direction 406c that is directed to the bottom
of the plants. The direction of the airflow for each of the
plurality of vents 304 may be controlled by the master controller
106. In embodiments, a motor or other moving mechanism may be
coupled to the vents 302, and the master controller 106 may control
the motor or other moving mechanism to change the angle of the
vents 302. For example, the vents 302 are pivotally coupled to the
airflow line 112, and the motor or other moving mechanism may
change the angle of the vents 302. In some embodiments, a motor or
other moving mechanism change the height of the vents 302. The
direction of the airflow may be determined based on the
identification of plants on the carts. For example, the plurality
of vents 304 output air in the first direction 406a if plants A on
the carts while the plurality of vents 304 output air in the second
direction 406b if plants B on the carts. In some embodiments, the
master controller 106 may control the plurality of vents 304 to
continuously change the direction of air. For example, the master
controller 106 may instruct the plurality of vents 404 to output
air in the first direction 406a for 10 minutes, and then, in the
second direction 406b for 10 minutes, and then, in the third
direction 406c for 10 minutes.
[0073] FIG. 7 depicts a cross-sectional view of the ascending
portion 102a or the descending portion 102b in FIG. 1, according to
one or more embodiments shown and described herein. In embodiments,
an air blower 710 may be located at the top of the ascending
portion 102a or the descending portion 102b and output air in -z
direction. An air intaker 720 may be located at the bottom of the
ascending portion 102a or the descending portion 102b, such that
the air output from the air blower 710 flows into the air intaker
720 as shown by arrows in FIG. 7. The air blower 710 and the air
intaker 720 are connected to the HVAC system 310 such that the HVAC
system 310 controls the airflow by the air blower 710 and the air
intaker 720. On each story of the ascending portion 102a or the
descending portion 102b, airflow is created in a direction toward
the center of the ascending portion 102a or the descending portion
102b indicated as broken arrows in FIG. 7.
[0074] In embodiments, the vents 304 shown in FIG. 3 may be located
on each story of the ascending portion 102a or the descending
portion 102b and generate airflow in the direction toward the
center of the ascending portion 102a or the descending portion
102b. In some embodiments, the assembly line grow pod 100 does not
include the plurality of vents 304, and the airflow created by the
air blower 710 and the air intaker 720 induces airflow in the
direction toward the center of the ascending portion 102a or the
descending portion 102b. While FIG. 7 depicts the air blower 710
located at the top and the air intaker 720 located at the bottom of
the ascending portion 102a or the descending portion 102b, the air
blower 710 may be located at the bottom and the air intaker 720 may
be located at the top such that the airflow is generated in +z
direction.
[0075] FIG. 8 depicts a cross-sectional view of the ascending
portion 102a or the descending portion 102b in FIG. 1, according to
one or more embodiments shown and described herein. In embodiments,
the airflow line 112 extends along the axis of the ascending
portion 102a or the descending portion 102b as shown in FIG. 8. The
airflow line 112 is connected to the HVAC system 310 (shown in FIG.
4). The airflow line 112 includes a plurality of vents 304, each of
which is positioned adjacent to a cart on each story of the
ascending portion 102a or the descending portion 102b. Each of the
vents 304 is configured to output air toward the carts 104 as
indicated in arrows in FIG. 8. The airflow generated by the HVAC
system 310 may prevent spores and other contaminants from adhering
to the plants on the carts 104. In some embodiments, the master
controller 106 may receive images of plants on the carts 104 from
the imaging device 250 and process the images to determine the type
of contaminants on the plants. The master controller 106 may
determine a direction and/or airflow power to remove the spores or
contaminants based on the identified type of contaminants.
[0076] FIG. 9 depicts a cross-sectional view of the ascending
portion 102a or the descending portion 102b in FIG. 1, according to
another embodiment shown and described herein. In embodiments, the
airflow line 112 extends along the axis of the ascending portion
102a or the descending portion 102b as shown in FIG. 9. The airflow
line 112 is connected to the HVAC system 310 (shown in FIG. 4). The
airflow line 112 includes a plurality of vents 304, each of which
is positioned adjacent to a cart on each story of the ascending
portion 102a or the descending portion 102b. Each of the vents 304
is configured to input air such that airflow is created as
indicated in broken line arrows in FIG. 9. The airflow generated by
the HVAC system 310 may prevent spores and other contaminants from
adhering to the plants on the carts 104.
[0077] FIG. 10 depicts a master controller 106 for an assembly line
grow pod 100, according to embodiments described herein. As
illustrated, the master controller 106 includes a processor 630,
input/output hardware 632, the network interface hardware 634, a
data storage component 636 (which stores systems data 638a, plant
data 638b, and/or other data), and the memory component 540. The
memory component 540 may be configured as volatile and/or
nonvolatile memory and as such, may include random access memory
(including SRAM, DRAM, and/or other types of RAM), flash memory,
secure digital (SD) memory, registers, compact discs (CD), digital
versatile discs (DVD), and/or other types of non-transitory
computer-readable mediums. Depending on the particular embodiment,
these non-transitory computer-readable mediums may reside within
the master controller 106 and/or external to the master controller
106.
[0078] The memory component 540 may store operating logic 642, the
systems logic 544a, and the plant logic 544b. The systems logic
544a and the plant logic 544b may each include a plurality of
different pieces of logic, each of which may be embodied as a
computer program, firmware, and/or hardware, as an example. A local
communications interface 646 is also included in FIG. 10 and may be
implemented as a bus or other communication interface to facilitate
communication among the components of the master controller
106.
[0079] The processor 630 may include any processing component
operable to receive and execute instructions (such as from a data
storage component 636 and/or the memory component 540). The
input/output hardware 632 may include and/or be configured to
interface with microphones, speakers, a display, and/or other
hardware.
[0080] The network interface hardware 634 may include and/or be
configured for communicating with any wired or wireless networking
hardware, including an antenna, a modem, LAN port, wireless
fidelity (Wi-Fi) card, WiMax card, ZigBee card, Bluetooth chip, USB
card, mobile communications hardware, and/or other hardware for
communicating with other networks and/or devices. From this
connection, communication may be facilitated between the master
controller 106 and other computing devices, such as the user
computing device 552 and/or remote computing device 554.
[0081] The operating logic 642 may include an operating system
and/or other software for managing components of the master
controller 106. As also discussed above, systems logic 544a and the
plant logic 544b may reside in the memory component 540 and may be
configured to performer the functionality, as described herein.
[0082] It should be understood that while the components in FIG. 10
are illustrated as residing within the master controller 106, this
is merely an example. In some embodiments, one or more of the
components may reside external to the master controller 106. It
should also be understood that, while the master controller 106 is
illustrated as a single device, this is also merely an example. In
some embodiments, the systems logic 544a and the plant logic 544b
may reside on different computing devices. As an example, one or
more of the functionalities and/or components described herein may
be provided by the user computing device 552 and/or remote
computing device 554.
[0083] Additionally, while the master controller 106 is illustrated
with the systems logic 544a and the plant logic 544b as separate
logical components, this is also an example. In some embodiments, a
single piece of logic (and/or or several linked modules) may cause
the master controller 106 to provide the described
functionality.
[0084] As illustrated above, various embodiments for providing
airflow in a grow pod are disclosed. These embodiments create a
quick growing, small footprint, chemical free, low labor solution
to growing microgreens and other plants for harvesting. These
embodiments may create recipes and/or receive recipes that dictate
airflow in the assembly line grow pod that optimizes plant growth
and output. The recipe may be implemented strictly and/or modified
based on results of a particular plant, tray, or crop.
[0085] Accordingly, some embodiments may include an air flow
control system for an assembly line grow pod. The air flow control
system includes a shell including an enclosed area, one or more
carts moving on a track within the enclosed area, an air supplier
within the enclosed area, one or more outlet vents coupled to the
air supplier, and a controller. The controller identifies a plant
on the one or more carts, determines an airflow rate based on an
airflow recipe for the identified plant, and controls the air
supplier to output air through the one or more outlet vents at the
airflow rate. The airflow provided enhances the production and
quality of plants as well as prevents spores and other contaminants
from adhering to the plants.
[0086] While particular embodiments and aspects of the present
disclosure have been illustrated and described herein, various
other changes and modifications can be made without departing from
the spirit and scope of the disclosure. Moreover, although various
aspects have been described herein, such aspects need not be
utilized in combination. Accordingly, it is therefore intended that
the appended claims cover all such changes and modifications that
are within the scope of the embodiments shown and described
herein.
* * * * *