A system to farm vertically

Abstract

The invention relates to a system 100 to farm vertically, enhance operational efficiency, and optimize resource utilization in vertical farming. The system 100 includes a tray selection and movement mechanism 101 that allows for selective access and repositioning of trays within a multi-tier setup without disrupting surrounding trays. The tray selection and movement mechanism 101 includes an indexing mechanism 110 with a rotating disc 111, a slider-crank mechanism 120 for horizontal movement, and a coupler curve mechanism 130 for vertical positioning. By ensuring uniform light exposure and nutrient distribution, the system improves plant growth and yields. The modular design enables scalability to accommodate various crop types and expansion needs. An artificial lighting system 103 and a water and nutrient delivery system 102 enhance plant health and productivity. [To be published with Fig. 1]

Description

FIELD OF INVENTION

[0001] The present invention generally relates to agriculture. More specifically, the present invention is related to a system to farm vertically.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The subject matter discussed in the background section should not be assumed to be prior art merely as a result of its mention in the background section. Similarly, a problem mentioned in the background section or associated with the subject matter of the background section should not be assumed to have been previously recognized in the prior art. The subject matter in the background section merely represents different approaches, which in and of themselves may also correspond to implementations of the claimed technology.

[0003] Vertical farming has become a vital solution to address the global challenges of food security, space optimization, and sustainable agriculture, particularly in densely populated urban environments. By utilizing vertically stacked layers for plant growth, these systems promise higher yield per square meter, efficient land use, and the potential for year-round crop production. However, despite these advantages, conventional vertical farming systems face several inherent technical challenges that limit their operational efficiency, scalability, and overall economic viability.

[0004] One major issue in existing vertical farming systems is the non-uniform distribution of essential resources, particularly light and nutrients. Most traditional vertical farming setups rely on static lighting systems and passive nutrient delivery methods, which often result in inefficient resource allocation across multiple layers of plants. Plants positioned at different heights frequently receive unequal light exposure due to the fixed placement of light sources, which leads to uneven growth rates, lower yields, and suboptimal plant health. Conventionally, the nutrientdelivery mechanisms do not adapt to the specific requirements of individual plant layers, resulting in subpar nutrient absorption and reduced productivity.

[0005] Moreover, current systems typically exhibit limited automation for tray selection and movement, making routine farming tasks labor-intensive and time-consuming. In most cases, accessing or repositioning a particular tray within a multi-tier setup involves the manual or semi-automated movement of all the trays stacked above or below it. This lack of selective tray access leads to unnecessary disruption of the surrounding layers, increasing the risk of plant damage and creating inefficiencies in maintenance and harvesting procedures. Additionally, the frequent manual handling of trays requires significant labor input, which raises operational costs and reduces the scalability of such systems for large-scale commercial applications.

[0006] The mechanical systems employed in conventional designs, particularly for tray movement and repositioning, tend to be basic, lacking the precision and integration needed to meet the demands of automated, large-scale vertical farming. Existing tray movement mechanisms generally involve simple pulley systems or linear actuators, which are inadequate for performing complex, multi-axis tray movements required for selective layer access. As a result, the process of adjusting or removing a specific tray can disrupt the entire system, causing delays, inefficiencies, and potential crop losses. The absence of sophisticated automation technologies further limits the adaptability of these systems to dynamic farming conditions, such as varying crop types, growth stages, and environmental parameters.

[0007] Additionally, most traditional vertical farming systems suffer from poor scalability and modularity. These designs are often rigid and lack the flexibility to accommodate additional trays or handle different crop types with varying spatial and environmental requirements. This restricts their application in diverse agricultural scenarios, including high-value crops, and prevents easy system expansion to meet growing food demand. Furthermore, the lack of modularitycomplicates the integration of advanced systems such as smart lighting, adaptive nutrient delivery, and environmental monitoring, which are essential for optimizing plant growth conditions.

[0008] Finally, while some systems incorporate basic automation for tray movement or environmental control, these technologies are often inadequate for precise and selective control. For example, the majority of existing solutions do not allow for the independent vertical repositioning of trays without affecting the surrounding layers. The absence of such selective movement mechanisms leads to inefficiencies in resource usage and maintenance activities, significantly undermining the potential for vertical farming to scale efficiently.

[0009] In light of these shortcomings, there is a pressing need for an advanced vertical farming system that incorporates dynamic, selective tray movement mechanisms, provides uniform resource distribution across layers, and integrates scalable automation technologies. Such a system would not only enhance operational efficiency by reducing labor-intensive processes but also optimize resource utilization and enable seamless adaptation to various crop types and environmental conditions, thereby addressing the limitations of current vertical farming techniques.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0010] This summary is provided to introduce aspects related to a system to farm vertically and the aspects are further described below in the detailed description. This summary is not intended to identify essential features of the claimed subject matter nor is it intended for use in determining or limiting the scope of the claimed subject matter.

[0011] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, a system to farm vertically is disclosed, comprises a tray selection and movement mechanism configured to selectively access and reposition at least one tray from a plurality of trays arranged in a vertical multi-tier farming setup to place plants without disrupting arrangement of other trays.

[0012] The tray selection and movement mechanism comprise an indexing mechanism including at least one rotating disc, at least one driven gear, and a bar for tray selection. The tray selection and movement mechanism further comprises a slider-crank mechanism to facilitate horizontal sliding motion of selected tray and a coupler curve mechanism to provide vertical movement for positioning the selected tray at various heights.

[0013] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the indexing mechanism comprises at least one rotating disc with one or more radially protruding slots that engage with at least one driven gear attached to a bar for tray selection. Further, the rotating disc is connected to a frame with gears that interface with the trays.

[0014] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the indexing mechanism is a linear Geneva mechanism.

[0015] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the slider-crank mechanism connected to the bar of the indexing mechanism.

[0016] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the coupler curve mechanism is connected to the slider-crank mechanism.

[0017] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the tray selection and movement mechanism is configured to periodically shift at least one tray from the plurality of trays in the vertical multi-tier setup, for uniform light exposure and nutrient distribution.

[0018] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system comprises a control module configured to control the tray selection and movement mechanism

[0019] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system comprises an artificial lighting system to distribute light for plant growth. The positioning and intensity of the artificial lighting system are determined based on growth stages and type of plants in the system.

[0020] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system comprises a water & nutrient delivery system for enhancing water & nutrient absorption by plants.

[0021] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system is a modular design allowing for scalable expansion to accommodate additional trays and varying crop types.

[0022] Other aspects and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description, taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, illustrating by way of example the principles of the invention.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0023] The accompanying drawings constitute a part of the description and are used to provide a further understanding of the present invention.

[0024] Fig. 1 illustrates a system to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0025] Fig. 2 illustrates an indexing mechanism of a tray selection and movement mechanism of the system to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0026] Fig. 3 illustrates a slider-crank mechanism of a tray selection and movement mechanism of the system to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0027] Fig. 4 illustrates a coupler curve mechanism a tray selection and movement mechanism of the system to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0028] Fig. 5 illustrates an artificial lighting system of the system to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0029] Fig. 6 illustrates a water & nutrient delivery system of the system to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention.

[0030] A more complete understanding of the present invention and its embodiments thereof may be acquired by referring to the following description and the accompanying drawings.DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] Exemplary embodiments now will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. The disclosure may, however, be embodied in many different forms and should not be construed as limited to the embodiments set forth herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will be thorough and complete, and will fully convey its scope to those skilled in the art. The terminology used in the detailed description of the particular exemplary embodiments illustrated in the accompanying drawings is not intended to be limiting. In the drawings, like numbers refer to like elements.

[0032] It is to be noted, however, that the reference numerals used herein illustrate only typical embodiments of the present subject matter, and are therefore, not to be considered for limiting its scope, for the subject matter may admit to other equally effective embodiments.

[0033] The specification may refer to "an", "another", "one" or "some" embodiment(s) in several locations.

[0034] This does not necessarily imply that each such reference is to the same embodiment(s), or that the feature only applies to a single embodiment. Single features of different embodiments may also be combined to provide other embodiments.

[0035] As used herein, the singular forms "a", "an" and "the" are intended to include the plural forms as well, unless expressly stated otherwise. It will be further understood that the terms "includes", "comprises", "including" and / or "comprising" when used in this specification, specify the presence of statedfeatures, integers, steps, operations, elements, and / or components, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, integers, steps, operations, elements, components, and / or groups thereof. It will be understood that when an element is referred to as being "connected" or "coupled" to another element, it can be directly connected or coupled to the other element or intervening elements may be present. Furthermore, "connected" or "coupled" as used herein may include operatively connected or coupled. As used herein, the term "and / or" includes any and all combinations and arrangements of one or more of the associated listed items.

[0036] Unless otherwise defined, all terms (including technical and scientific terms) used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skills in the art to which this disclosure pertains. It will be further understood that terms, such as those defined in commonly used dictionaries, should be interpreted as having a meaning that is consistent with their meaning in the context of the relevant art and will not be interpreted in an idealized or overly formal sense unless expressly so defined herein.

[0037] The detailed description includes specific details for the purpose of providing a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that the present invention may be practiced without these specific details.

[0038] The present invention pertains to the field of vertical farming, a method of agricultural production that maximizes space by growing crops in vertically stacked layers. Vertical farming systems are increasingly being adopted due to their potential to provide high yields in limited spaces, especially in urban environments. These systems offer the ability to grow a wide variety of crops in controlled environments, allowing for year-round production and efficient use of resources such as light, water, and nutrients.

[0039] This invention introduces a vertical farming system designed to enhance the efficiency of plant cultivation in multi-tiered setups. The systemsupports selective access and movement of individual trays, enabling precise management of plant growth conditions. The system is designed to improve operational workflows by facilitating the easy repositioning of trays without disturbing surrounding layers, promoting streamlined maintenance, harvesting, and other routine farming activities.

[0040] The system also integrates mechanisms to optimize plant growth through uniform distribution of essential resources. By allowing plants at different layers to receive the appropriate amount of light and nutrients, this invention ensures better resource utilization and improved overall productivity. Moreover, the modular nature of the system allows for flexibility in scaling and adapting to various crop types and farming needs, making it suitable for both small and large-scale agricultural operations.

[0041] Fig. 1 illustrates a system 100 to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The system 100 to farm vertically comprises a tray selection and movement mechanism 101 configured to selectively access and reposition at least one tray from a plurality of trays arranged in a vertical multi-tier farming setup to place plants without disrupting arrangement of other trays. Further, the system comprises a water and nutrient delivery system 102 configured to deliver water and nutrients to the plants and an artificial lighting system 103 to distribute light to the plants. Furthermore, the system comprises a control module (not shown in the figures) to control the system 100 and components of the system 100.

[0042] The tray selection and movement mechanism 101 comprise an indexing mechanism 110 including at least one rotating disc 111, at least one driven gear 112, and a bar 113 for tray selection (as illustrated in Fig. 2). The tray selection and movement mechanism 101 further comprises a slider-crank mechanism 120 to facilitate horizontal sliding motion of selected tray and a coupler curve mechanism 130 to provide vertical movement for positioning the selected tray at various heights.

[0043] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the tray selection and movement mechanism 101 is configured to periodically shift at least one tray from the plurality of trays in the vertical multi-tier setup, for uniform light exposure and nutrient distribution.

[0044] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the indexing mechanism comprises at least one rotating disc 111 with one or more radially protruding slots that engage with at least one driven gear 112 attached to the bar 113 for tray selection. Further, the rotating disc 111 is connected to a frame with gears that interface with the trays (as illustrated in Fig. 2). The bar 113 advances linearly by a fixed amount with each interaction between the disc 111 and the slots, moving the bar to a specific position corresponding to the selected tray. The precise, stepwise motion of the indexing mechanism ensures that trays can be selected without affecting adjacent layers.

[0045] Once the tray is selected, the slider-crank mechanism 120 enables its horizontal movement. The slider-crank mechanism 120 is connected to the bar 113 of the indexing mechanism 110. The slider-crank mechanism 120, driven by rotational input of the indexing mechanism 110, converts the rotational motion into a linear sliding action. A crank 121 (as shown in Fig. 3) attached to the indexing bar 113 rotates, and this rotational movement is transferred through a connecting rod 122 to a slider 123 linked to the tray. As the crank 121 rotates, the tray is pushed outward in a smooth horizontal motion, allowing for easy access to the plants for tasks such as harvesting, maintenance, or inspection.

[0046] After the tray is pulled out horizontally, the coupler curve mechanism 130 is configured to provide vertical movement. The coupler curve mechanism 130 is connected to the slider-crank mechanism 120. The coupler curve mechanism 130 comprises one or more coupler link 131 tracing a particular vertical path. The motion of the coupler link 131 is critical for the smooth raising and lowering of the tray. The vertical movement allows the tray to be positioned at various heights within the system, making it adaptable for tasks that require positioning the tray atdifferent levels, such as repositioning trays for uniform light exposure or nutrient distribution.

[0047] In an embodiment, the system further comprises a water and nutrient delivery system 102, configured to deliver water and nutrients to the plants and enhance the absorption of nutrients and water by the plants. The water and nutrient delivery system 102 uses hydroponic techniques to deliver nutrient-rich water directly to the plant roots in each tray. The nutrient delivery is tailored to each tray's specific requirements based on plant type and growth stage, ensuring that resources are distributed effectively across the entire system. This automated delivery system not only reduces water wastage but also improves crop yield by providing plants with optimal growing conditions.

[0048] In an embodiment, the system has a modular design that allows for adaptation to different scales and plant types. Its ability to selectively access trays without disrupting the entire stack reduces manual labor and enhances operational efficiency. Furthermore, by integrating and automating advanced mechanical systems for tray handling, the system ensures precise control over tray movements, optimizing resource distribution such as lighting and nutrients across all layers. The system is ideal for large-scale vertical farming, where precision and automation are key to maintaining high yields and reducing labor costs. Overall, the system addresses major challenges in vertical farming, such as selective tray access, resource management, and scalability, making it a robust solution for modern agricultural applications.

[0049] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the system 100 comprises a control module (not shown in the figures) configured to control the tray selection and movement mechanism. The control module is responsible for automating the system 100. In one embodiment, the control module may be attached to the system 100 via wires. In another embodiment, the control module may be wirelessly connected to the tray selection and movement mechanism 101. A user of the system 100 may give instructions on the control module to control the system 100. Thecontrol module may be communicatively coupled with a memory. The memory may be configured to store the instructions.

[0050] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the control module may be configured to execute a sequence of instructions stored in a non-transitory computer-readable medium. The control module may be operatively connected to various hardware components, including memory, input / output interfaces, and storage devices, which may collectively enable the execution and management of software applications. The control module may comprise multiple cores or processors, where each core may be capable of executing independent threads in parallel. This multi-core architecture may allow the software application to distribute computational tasks across the available cores, thereby enhancing processing efficiency and reducing execution time.

[0051] In an embodiment of the present disclosure, the control module may include one or more general-purpose processors (e.g., INTEL or Advanced Micro Devices (AMD) microprocessors) and / or one or more special-purpose processors (e.g., digital signal processors or Xilinx System On Chip (SOC) Field Programmable Gate Array (FPGA) processor), MIPS / ARM-class processor, a microprocessor, a digital signal processor, an application specific integrated circuit, a microcontroller, a state machine, or any type of programmable logic array.

[0052] In another embodiment, the memory may include but is not limited to, non-transitory machine-readable storage devices such as hard drives, magnetic tape, floppy diskettes, optical disks, Compact Disc Read-Only Memories (CD-ROMs), and magneto-optical disks, semiconductor memories, such as ROMs, Random Access Memories (RAMs), Programmable Read-Only Memories (PROMs), Erasable PROMs (EPROMs), Electrically Erasable PROMs (EEPROMs), flash memory, magnetic or optical cards, or other types of media / machine-readable medium suitable for storing electronic instructions.

[0053] Fig. 2 illustrates an indexing mechanism 110 of a tray selection and movement mechanism 101 of the system 100 to farm vertically, in accordance withan embodiment of the present disclosure. The indexing mechanism 110 comprises at least one rotating disc 111 with one or more radially protruding slots that engage with at least one driven gear 112 attached to a bar 113 for tray selection. Further, the rotating disc 111 is connected to a frame with gears that interface with the trays.

[0054] In another embodiment of the present disclosure, the indexing mechanism 110 may be a linear Geneva mechanism. A Geneva mechanism is known for converting continuous rotational motion into intermittent, stepwise movement.

[0055] The advantage of using the Geneva mechanism lies in its ability to provide precise control over tray selection. The fixed slots of the rotating disc 111 ensure that the system 100 may only advance by predetermined amounts, reducing the risk of overshooting or misalignment. This feature is important in vertical farming, where accuracy in accessing specific trays is critical to prevent damage to the plants and to optimize the workflow for maintenance, harvesting, or inspection tasks.

[0056] The Geneva mechanism may also ensure durability and reliability due to its simple mechanical design, making it ideal for repetitive operations in an automated environment. Its ability to operate with minimal wear and tear, while maintaining precise control over tray selection, ensuring long-term efficiency and low maintenance in vertical farming applications.

[0057] Fig. 3 illustrates a slider-crank mechanism 120 of a tray selection and movement mechanism 101 of the system 100 to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The slider-crank mechanism 120 facilitates the horizontal movement of a selected tray upon identification by the indexing mechanism 110. The slider-crank mechanism 120 converts rotational motion into linear motion, enabling the tray to slide in and out of a vertical multitier setup. The slider-crank mechanism 120 comprises a crank 121, a connecting rod 122, and a slider 123 that is attached to the tray.

[0058] In an embodiment, as the crank 121 rotates, its motion is transmitted via the connecting rod 122 to the slider 123. The rotation of the crank 121 imparts a reciprocal motion to the slider, either extending or retracting it based on the directional movement of the crank 121. This controlled linear motion ensures smooth tray extraction from or repositioning into the vertical multi-tier setup.

[0059] The length of the connecting rod 122 and the radius of the crank 121 are calculated to achieve the required stroke length, corresponding to the distance necessary for the tray's full accessibility outside the vertical multi-tier setup. The connecting rod 122 transmits the force generated by the crank 121, converting rotational energy into linear motion to move the tray along a guided path.

[0060] In an embodiment, the slider 123 may be mounted on a guide rail or track to ensure smooth and precise horizontal movement. The system is capable of handling the tray's load and its contents, ensuring stable operation without disrupting the plants. The slider-crank mechanism 120 offers a straightforward and effective solution for converting rotational energy into controlled linear motion, crucial for operations such as harvesting or inspection in the vertical farming system.

[0061] Fig. 4 illustrates a coupler curve mechanism 130 a tray selection and movement mechanism 101 of the system 100 to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present invention. The coupler curve mechanism 130 is configured to provide vertical motion needed to position the trays at various heights within the multi-tier system. The coupler curve mechanism 130 comprises a coupler link 131 that traces a specific motion profile, known as the coupler curve, that dictates the vertical path of the selected tray. The four-bar linkage consists of a fixed frame, at least two input / output links 132, and the coupler link 131 that connects the input / output links 132.

[0062] In an embodiment, one of the input / output links 132 receives rotational motion, which is transferred through the coupler link to other input / output links 132, resulting in the vertical movement of the tray. The coupler link 131 is designedin such a way that it traces a specific path as one of the input / output links 132 rotates, providing controlled vertical displacement for the tray. The vertical motion is smooth and continuous, enabling the tray to be lifted or lowered to different levels within the vertical multi-tier setup.

[0063] The coupler curve mechanism 130 provides several advantages, including stability and precise control over vertical movement. The design of the coupler curve mechanism 130 ensures that the tray can be raised or lowered smoothly, without affecting the other trays in the vertical multi-tier setup. Additionally, the use of a coupler curve allows for complex motion profiles, making it adaptable for various tasks within the vertical farming system, such as moving trays to different levels for light exposure or repositioning them for harvesting. Overall, the coupler curve mechanism ensures that the system can perform precise vertical adjustments, providing flexibility and control in a densely packed vertical farming environment.

[0064] Fig. 5 illustrates an artificial lighting system 103 of the system 100 to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 comprises an artificial lighting system 103 to distribute light for plant growth. The positioning and intensity of the artificial lighting system 103 are determined based on growth stages and type of plants in the system.

[0065] The artificial lighting system 103 is configured to provide plants with the optimal amount of light for photosynthesis, ensuring that growth conditions are controlled and consistent across all layers. The artificial lighting system 103 uses LED lights 103a, which are highly energy-efficient and customizable in terms of light intensity, spectrum, and duration. The lights 103a of the artificial lighting system 103 are strategically positioned above and around the trays to ensure uniform light distribution to every plant, addressing a common issue in traditional vertical farms where plants at different heights receive uneven lighting.

[0066] The artificial lighting system 103 may include sensors and timers that adjust the light intensity and duration based on the growth stage of the plants. Forexample, seedlings may require lower light intensity with a specific wavelength to encourage sprouting, while mature plants may need higher intensity and different light spectra to promote flowering or fruiting. The system 100 automatically adjusts these settings, ensuring that plants in every tray receive the right light conditions for their current growth phase, thus optimizing photosynthesis and growth efficiency.

[0067] In addition to customizable light control, the artificial lighting system 103 is designed to be energy-efficient, reducing the overall operational costs of the vertical farm. LEDs are known for their low energy consumption and long lifespan, making them ideal for continuous operation in a farming environment. The system 100 may also integrate with renewable energy sources such as solar panels, further reducing its environmental impact and operational costs.

[0068] The ability to fine-tune the lighting conditions for each layer not only promotes uniform plant growth but also helps in maximizing yields. By delivering the right light conditions tailored to the specific needs of each crop, the system ensures that plants grow at an optimal rate, regardless of their position in the multitier setup. This dynamic lighting system, when combined with a water and nutrient delivery system 102, creates an environment where plants can grow more efficiently and sustainably.

[0069] Fig. 6 illustrates a water & nutrient delivery system 102 of the system 100 to farm vertically, in accordance with an embodiment of the present disclosure. The system 100 comprises a water & nutrient delivery system 102 to distribute water and nutrients to plants and to enhance water & nutrient absorption by plants.

[0070] The water & nutrient delivery system 102 utilizes hydroponic techniques to optimize plant growth by providing nutrient-rich water directly to the plant roots. Unlike traditional soil-based farming, where nutrients can be unevenly absorbed, hydroponic systems deliver a controlled mixture of water and essential nutrients, ensuring that each plant receives the precise amount it needs to thrive.The water & nutrient delivery system 102 is highly efficient in resource usage, reducing water wastage and ensuring that nutrients are absorbed effectively.

[0071] The water & nutrient delivery system 102 may employ a network of pipes and valves connected to each tray, enabling the targeted delivery of water and nutrients. Each tray is equipped with its own set of delivery lines, allowing for precise control over the amount and frequency of nutrient application. Nutrient mixture can be customized based on the specific requirements of the crops being grown in each tray, ensuring optimal growth conditions for diverse plant species. Additionally, sensors may be integrated into the water & nutrient delivery system 102 to monitor moisture levels and nutrient concentrations in real-time, further enhancing the precision of water and nutrient delivery.

[0072] In one embodiment, the water & nutrient delivery system 102 may be a closed-loop design, which recirculates unused water and nutrients back into the system for future use. This significantly reduces water consumption, making the system highly sustainable and ideal for urban farming environments where water resources may be limited. The water & nutrient delivery system 102 also ensures that the nutrient mixture remains balanced and available for all plants, preventing issues like nutrient depletion or over-fertilization, which can harm crop growth.

[0073] By automating the water and nutrient delivery process, the system 100 reduces the need for manual intervention, optimizing efficiency and ensuring that plants consistently receive the resources they need to grow. This results in improved crop yields, faster growth rates, and a more sustainable approach to farming, all while minimizing waste and operational costs.Technical Advancement and Economic Significance

[0074] The systems disclosed in the present invention, to farm vertically, may have the following advantages over conventional art:- The invention ensures dynamic and selective tray movement, allowing for precise access to individual trays without disturbing adjacent layers. This enhances operational efficiency during maintenance and harvesting.- The invention eliminates the issues of non-uniform resource distribution by incorporating mechanisms for uniform light exposure and nutrient delivery across all trays. This leads to improved plant growth and yield.- The invention ensures integration of an indexing mechanism, slider-crank mechanism, and coupler curve mechanism, providing sophisticated multi-axis movements that enhance the adaptability of the system to various crop types and growth stages.- The invention ensures a modular design, enabling easy scalability to accommodate additional trays and diverse crop types, thus meeting varying agricultural demands without compromising system integrity.- The invention eliminates reliance on basic mechanical systems by utilizing advanced automation technologies, which reduce the need for manual labor and enhance the precision of tray movements.- The invention ensures adaptability to market demands by allowing for rapid adjustments in crop types and configurations, thus enhancing market responsiveness and potential revenue streams.- The invention ensures reduced operational costs by minimizing labor-intensive processes through automation, allowing for a more cost-effective farming operation, particularly in large-scale commercial applications.- The invention eliminates inefficiencies associated with traditional vertical farming methods, thus increasing productivity and profitability by optimizing resource utilization, leading to higher crop yields per square meter.

[0075] Although implementations of a system to farm vertically have beendescribed in language specific to structural features and / or methods, it is to beunderstood that the appended claims are not necessarily limited to the specific features or methods described. Rather, the specific features and methods are disclosed as examples of implementations of a system to farm vertically.

[0076] The invention has been described above with reference to numerous embodiments and specific examples. Many variations will suggest themselves to those skilled in this art in light of the above-detailed description. All such obvious variations are within the full intended scope of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A system (100) to farm vertically, comprises: at least one tray selection and movement mechanism (101) configured to selectively access and reposition at least one tray from a plurality of trays arranged in a vertical multi-tier farming setup to place plants without disrupting arrangement of other trays, wherein the tray selection and movement mechanism (101) comprise: an indexing mechanism (110) comprises at least one rotating disc (111), at least one driven gear (112) and a bar (113) for tray selection; a slider-crank mechanism (120) to facilitate horizontal sliding motion of selected tray; and a coupler curve mechanism (130) to provide vertical movement for positioning the selected tray at various heights.

2. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the indexing mechanism (110) comprises at least one rotating disc with one or more radially protruding slots that engage with at least one driven gear attached to a bar for tray selection, wherein the rotating disc is connected to a frame with gears that interface with the trays.

3. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the indexing mechanism (110) is a linear Geneva mechanism.

4. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the slider-crank mechanism (120) connected to the bar of the indexing mechanism (110).

5. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the coupler curve mechanism (130) is connected to the slider-crank mechanism (120).

6. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tray selection and movement mechanism (101) is configured to periodically shift at least one tray from the plurality of trays in the vertical multi-tier setup, for uniform light exposure and nutrient distribution.

7. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a control module configured to control the tray selection and movement mechanism (101).

8. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises an artificial lighting system (103) to distribute light for plant growth, wherein the positioning and intensity of the artificial lighting system (103) are determined based on growth stages and type of plants in the system (100).

9. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system (100) comprises a water & nutrient delivery system (102) for enhancing water & nutrient absorption by plants.

10. The system (100) as claimed in claim 1, the system (100) is a modular design allowing for scalable expansion to accommodate additional trays and varying crop types.