Stackable modules

Abstract

This disclosure relates to stackable modules comprising a functional component. The stackable module comprises a load-bearing frame having first and second support members held in a parallel configuration spaced apart by transverse members. The transverse members form part of the functional component. The load-bearing frame is configured so that the stackable module can occupy a rectangular volume in which the functional component is supported internally. The functional component may be a functional component of a vertical farming system.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Field of the Invention The present invention relates to vertical farming, and more particularly, to a vertical farming system and related components based on an infrastructure and control system of an automated storage and retrieval system.

Background Art

[0002] Background and Prior Art Automated Storage and Retrieval System Automated storage and retrieval systems, also known as "cube storage systems" or "grid storage systems", are known. One such prior art system by the present applicant is described below.

[0003] FIG. 1 discloses a prior art automated storage and retrieval system 1 together with a framework structure 100, and FIGS. 2, 3, and 4 disclose three different prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 suitable for operating on such a system 1.

[0004] The framework structure 100 includes upright members 102 and a storage volume including storage columns 105 arranged in rows between the upright members 102. In these storage columns 105, storage containers 106, also known as bins, are stacked on top of each other to form a stack 107. The members 102 can typically be formed from a metal, such as an extruded aluminum profile.

[0005] The framework structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 includes a rail system 108 positioned over the top of the framework structure 100, on which a number of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can operate to raise storage containers 106 from storage columns 105, lower storage containers 106 into storage columns 105, and transport storage containers 106 above storage columns 105. The rail system 108 includes a first set 110 of parallel rails positioned over the top of the frame structure 100 to guide the movement of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 in a first direction X, and a second set 111 of parallel rails positioned perpendicular to the first set 110 to guide the movement of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 in a second direction Y perpendicular to the first direction X. Containers 106 stored in column 105 are accessed by container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 through access openings 112 in rail system 108. Container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can move laterally above storage column 105, i.e., in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane.

[0006] Upright members 102 of the framework structure 100 may be used to guide the storage containers while raising the containers from the column 105 and lowering the containers 105 into the column. The stack 107 of containers 106 is typically freestanding.

[0007] Each of the conventional container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 comprises a vehicle body 201a, 301a, and 401a, and first and second sets of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, and 401c, respectively, which enable lateral movement of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 in the X and Y directions. Figures 2, 3, and 4 show all two wheels of each set. The first set of wheels 201b, 301b, and 401b is arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the first set of rails 110, and the second set of wheels 201c, 301c, and 401c is arranged to engage with two adjacent rails of the second set of rails 111. At least one of the sets of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, and 401c can be raised or lowered so that the wheels 201b, 301b, and 401b of the first set and / or the wheels 201c, 301c, and 401c of the second set can engage with the rails 110 and 111 of their respective sets at any given time.

[0008] Each of the conventional container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 also includes a lifting device for vertically transporting the storage container 106, for example, raising the storage container 106 from the storage column and lowering the storage container 106 into the storage column 105. This lifting device includes one or more gripping / engaging devices adapted to engage with the storage container 106. These gripping / engaging devices can be lowered from the vehicles 201, 301, and 401 so that the position of the gripping / engaging devices relative to the vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can be adjusted in a third direction Z perpendicular to a first direction X and a second direction Y. Some of the gripping devices of the container handling vehicles 301 and 401 are shown in Figures 3 and 4, indicated by reference numerals 304 and 404. The gripping devices of container handling device 201 are not shown in Figure 2 because they are located within the vehicle body 201a.

[0009] Conventionally, and for the purposes of this application, Z=1 identifies the uppermost layer available for storage containers below rails 110, 111, i.e., the layer directly below rail system 108; Z=2 identifies the second layer below rail system 108; Z=3 identifies the third layer, and so on. In the typical prior art disclosed in Figure 1, Z=8 identifies the lowest layer at the bottom of the storage container. Similarly, X=1...n and Y=1...n identify the position of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. Thus, as an example, using the Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown in Figure 1, it can be said that the storage container identified as 106' in Figure 1 occupies storage positions X=17, Y=1, Z=6. Container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can be said to travel within layer Z=0, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X and Y coordinates. Therefore, the storage container shown in Figure 1, which extends above the rail system 108, is also said to be located within layer Z=0.

[0010] The storage volume of the framework structure 100 may be referred to as grid 104, and the possible storage locations within this grid are referred to as storage cells. Each storage column may be identified by its position in the X and Y directions, and each storage cell may be identified by its container number in the X, Y, and Z directions.

[0011] Each of the conventional container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 is equipped with a storage compartment or storage space for receiving and storing the storage containers 106 when transporting the storage containers 106 across the rail system 108. This storage space may comprise a cavity located inside the vehicle body 201a, 401a, as shown in Figures 2 and 4 and described, for example, in International Patent Application Publication 2015 / 193278 and International Patent Application Publication 2019 / 206487, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] Figure 3 shows an alternative configuration of a container handling vehicle 301 having a cantilever structure. Such a vehicle is described in detail, for example, Norwegian Patent No. 317366, which is also incorporated herein by reference.

[0013] The cavity container handling vehicle 201 shown in Figure 2 may have a footprint covering an area having dimensions in the X and Y directions that are substantially equal to the lateral range of the storage column 105, as described, for example, in International Patent Application Publication No. 2015 / 193278, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, the term “lateral” may mean “horizontal.”

[0014] Alternatively, the cavity container handling vehicle 401 may have a footprint larger than the lateral area defined by the storage column 105 as shown in Figures 1 and 4, as disclosed, for example, in International Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 090684 or International Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 206487.

[0015] The rail system 108 typically comprises rails having grooves on which the wheels of a vehicle run. Alternatively, the rails may have upward-projecting elements, and the wheels of the vehicle may have flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and upward-projecting elements are collectively known as tracks. Each rail may have one track, or each rail 110, 111 may have two parallel tracks. In other rail systems 108, each rail in one direction (e.g., the X direction) may have one track, and each rail in the other vertical direction (e.g., the Y direction) may have two tracks. Also, each rail 110, 111 may have two track members fastened together, with each track member providing one of a pair of tracks provided by each rail.

[0016] International Publication No. 2018 / 146304, whose contents are incorporated herein by reference, illustrates a typical configuration of a rail system 108 comprising rails and parallel tracks in both the X and Y directions.

[0017] In the framework structure 100, the majority of the columns are storage columns 105, i.e., columns 105 in which storage containers 106 are stored in stacks 107. In addition to the storage columns 105, there are dedicated columns within the framework structure. In Figure 1, columns 119 and 120 are dedicated columns used by container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 to drop off and / or pick up storage containers 106, thereby allowing the storage containers 106 to be transported to access stations (not shown) that can be accessed from outside the framework structure 100, or to be transported from or into the framework structure 100. In the art, such locations are usually referred to as “ports,” and the columns in which these ports are located may be referred to as “port columns” 119, 120. Transport to the access stations may be in any direction: horizontal, inclined, and / or vertical. For example, a storage container 106 is placed in a random or dedicated column 105 within a framework structure 100, and is then picked up by one of the container handling vehicles and transported to port columns 119, 120 for further transport to an access station. Transport from the port to the access station may require movement along various different directions by means such as delivery vehicles, trolleys, or other transport lines. It should be noted that the term “inclined” refers to the transport of a storage container 106 with a common transport orientation somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

[0018] In Figure 1, the first port column 119 may be a dedicated drop-off port column from which container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can drop off storage containers 106 to be transported to an access station or transfer station, for example, and the second port column 120 may be a dedicated pickup port column from which container handling vehicles 201, 301, and 401 can pick up the transported storage containers 106 from the access station or transfer station.

[0019] The access station may typically be a picking station or stocking station where product items are removed from or positioned within the storage container 106. At the picking station or stocking station, the storage container 106 is not typically retrieved from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but is returned to the framework structure 100 once accessed. The port may also be used to transfer the storage container to another storage facility (e.g., another framework structure or another automated storage and retrieval system), to a transport vehicle (e.g., a train or truck), or to a production facility.

[0020] A conveyor system equipped with conveyors is typically used to transport storage containers between port columns 119 and 120 and access stations.

[0021] If the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations are located at different levels, the conveyor system may include a lifting device with a vertical component for vertically transporting the storage containers 106 between the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations.

[0022] The conveyor system may be configured to transport the storage container 106 between different framework structures, for example, as described in International Publication No. 2014 / 075937, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0023] When accessing a storage container 106 stored in one of the columns 105 disclosed in Figure 1, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, or 401 is instructed to retrieve the target storage container 106 from its location and transport it to the drop-off port column 119. This operation involves moving the container handling vehicles 201, 301, or 401 to a location above the storage column 105 where the target storage container 106 is positioned, retrieving the storage container 106 from the storage column 105 using the lifting device (not shown) of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, or 401, and transporting the storage container 106 to the drop-off port column 119. If the target storage container 106 is located deep within the stack 107, i.e., if one or more other storage containers 106 are positioned above the target storage container 106, this operation also involves temporarily moving the storage containers positioned above before lifting the target storage container 106 from the storage column 105. This step, sometimes referred to in the art as "digging," may be performed in the same container handling vehicle that will later be used to transport the target storage container to the drop-off port column 119, or in one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles. Alternatively, or in addition, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 may have container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 dedicated to the task of temporarily retrieving storage containers 106 from storage column 105. Once the target storage container 106 has been removed from storage column 105, the temporarily removed storage container 106 may be returned to its original position in storage column 105. However, the removed storage container 106 may, alternatively, be relocated to another storage column 105.

[0024] When storage container 106 is stored in one of columns 105, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 is instructed to pick up storage container 106 from pick-up port column 120 and transport it to a location above the storage column 105 where the storage container is to be stored. After the target position within stack 107 or any storage container 106 positioned above it is retrieved, container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 position storage container 106 at the desired location. The retrieved storage container 106 is either lowered back into storage column 105 or relocated to another storage column 105.

[0025] To monitor and control automated storage and retrieval system 1, for example, the location of each storage container 106 within framework structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106, and the movement of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401, so that container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can deliver the desired storage container 106 to the desired location at the desired time without colliding with each other, automated storage and retrieval system 1 typically includes a computerized control system 500, typically including a database for tracking storage containers 106.

[0026] Vertical farming The term "vertical farming" refers to a system for growing plants, typically indoors, within a facility, where the growing plants are arranged in vertically stacked layers that are compact and space-saving. Vertical farming systems are often to some extent automated, with various tasks and controls being performed by automated machinery or control systems. The purpose of the vertical arrangement of the growing plants is to utilize three-dimensional space to generate a higher crop yield per given two-dimensional unit area.

[0027] Some vertical farming systems grow plants in soil, while other systems refer to hydroponics, a technique for growing plants without soil.

[0028] Furthermore, plants are grown within storage containers stored in a stack, and a vertical farming system is arranged in a framework structure similar to the framework structure of an automated storage and retrieval system in which a container handling vehicle automated for various purposes lifts and transports the container holding the plants. Such systems are exemplified by the following patents and patent application publications, namely, U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0035625; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 0246571; U.S. Patent No. 10,549,914; U.S. Patent No. 11,524,844; U.S. Patent No. 10,196,209; U.S. Patent Application Publication No. 2018 / 0170650; International Publication No. 2022 / 033886.

[0029] What is common to the aforementioned prior art systems is that the container in which the plants grow comprises a horizontal growth tray and the plants grow vertically from the horizontal tray. In a first case, using a container in the form of a rigid box structure gives rise to problems with the manufacture of such containers and their transport to a vertical farm facility. A rigid box-shaped container occupies a relatively large volume, making the transport and storage of such containers difficult and costly. Furthermore, arranging such box-shaped containers with vertically growing plants in a stack is not an optimal solution as it is difficult and cumbersome to provide lighting, water, and air flow to such a vertical stack of vertically growing plants.

[0030] Therefore, there is a need for a vertical farming system that improves the receptacle in which plants are grown, improves the configuration for supplying water to the plants, avoids the problem of water dripping onto the tracks of the rail system on which the automated vehicles of the system operate, and improves the provision of lighting, nutrients, and air flow to the growing plants.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0031]

Patent Document 1

[0032] Summary of the Invention The present invention is characterized by the independent claims, while the dependent claims describe other features of the present invention.

[0033] In one embodiment, the present invention relates to stackable modules, and more particularly to stackable propagation modules for supporting plants growing in a vertical farming system. Versions of the stackable modules may be used to support other functions such as water supply and drainage to assist the vertical farming system. Also provided herein are stackable water tank modules for providing water supply for the propagation modules, and stackable spacer modules for providing drainage below the propagation modules.

[0034] The present invention can be considered to provide a modular vertical farming system in which stackable modules are deployed in a stacked manner within a column of a framework structure. The stackable modules are used as building blocks for constructing a vertical farming column within a framework structure, for example having a water supply source at the top, with multiple propagation modules stacked vertically and spacer modules at the bottom to provide drainage and preferably capture water for reuse. The column is similar to the storage column of the automated storage and retrieval system described above, as illustrated, for example, in Figure 1. Preferred features mentioned in relation to the automated storage and retrieval system, for example, as described in relation to Figures 1 to 4, also apply equally to the stackable modules, framework structure, and module handling vehicle.

[0035] The stackable modules may include support members for supporting functional components, such as vertically positioned growth boards for growing plants, or vertically positioned plate members for supporting other functional components such as light sources, heat sources, or air transport sources. The support members may take the form of lateral support members. The support members may have vertical grooves into which, for example, growth media or vertical plates supporting one or more functional components can be inserted.

[0036] Stackable modules may also have applications outside of vertical farming systems. By being able to support functional components incorporated into vertical plates or held via other devices, stackable modules can be used in automated storage and retrieval systems for purposes other than vertical farming. The broader use of stackable modules in automated storage and retrieval systems having grid-based framework structures to provide localized functionality within storage columns is within the scope of this disclosure. Thus, although the present invention is primarily focused on stackable modules and is therefore illustrated in relation to vertical farming systems and facilities, these references should be read as also including the use of stackable modules in other types of systems or facilities having similar framework structures where stackable modules supporting functional components can provide localized benefits within columns, such as, but not limited to, heating, lighting, air circulation, sensors, fire protection, acoustic protection, and insulation, whether in automated storage and retrieval systems or in systems using similar technology for different purposes.

[0037] The support members for the stackable modules are part of a load-bearing frame that allows the stackable modules to be placed within a stack of other modules in a column of a vertical farming system framework structure, for example. This may be a column of a vertical farming facility, the column corresponding to a storage column in an automated storage and retrieval system, as previously mentioned in relation to Figure 1. For example, the stack may be a height of 10 or more stackable modules, preferably 15 or more stackable modules.

[0038] The support members may be in the form of columns that form the sides of the frame of the stackable modules, for example, load-bearing columns. The support members may have an upper edge surface for supporting the upper module, a lower edge surface for resting on the lower module, and a body between these that transmits the load from the upper to the rest of the stack below.

[0039] The upper edge surface of such a support member may be provided with a recess, for example, in the form of a notch, which allows the gripping mechanism of the module handling vehicle to engage with the top of the stackable module in order to lift the stackable module from the stack of modules in the column, transport the stackable module around the vertical agricultural facility, and lower the stackable module into the column. The module handling vehicle may be similar to the container handling vehicle of the automated storage and retrieval system described above.

[0040] The support members may be considered as side support members and may, for example, be I-shaped when stackable modules are viewed from the side. The upper and lower ends of the I-shape engage with the corresponding edge surfaces of the upper and lower modules, providing arms and legs of the support member that include upper and lower edge surfaces, respectively, for transferring loads from module to module.

[0041] Support members of the same shape can be used for a series of stackable modules, including but not limited to breeding modules, water tank modules, and spacer modules.

[0042] The support members of the stackable modules may be held apart by horizontal members. These horizontal members may be growth boards or some other form of vertical plate that provide functionality within the columns of a vertical farming facility. The horizontal members may be water tanks, or in the case of water tank modules, frames that support the water tanks. The horizontal members may be drainage or water collection devices, for example, in the case of spacer modules.

[0043] Embodiments described herein may have “vertical plates” positioned vertically within the carrier frame, although the vertical plates do not need to be positioned truly vertically to perform most of the functions described herein. Stackable modules with plates positioned substantially vertically within the module frame can also be considered within the scope of the term “vertical plates.” Substantially vertical can be seen as up to 10° on either side of true vertical.

[0044] In the case of a propagation module, the vertical plate is sometimes called a “propagation board.” The propagation board may function as a substrate for supporting a porous propagation medium such as a fiberboard (e.g., similar to an insulating board) or other suitable hydroponic propagation medium, or it may be a board comprising a porous propagation medium such as an area or layer of fiberboard formed on the propagation board to guide fluids such as water and / or nutrients to the plant held by the propagation board. Seeds can be germinated in the propagation medium, and plants can grow horizontally from a vertically positioned propagation board.

[0045] The assembled stackable modules can have essentially the same footprint as the storage containers of a typical automated storage and retrieval system in which a vertical farm may be implemented, thereby allowing the assembled stackable modules to be stacked within the columns of a vertical farm system's framework structure in the same way that storage containers in a typical automated storage and retrieval system's framework structure can be placed in a typical autostore-type automated storage and retrieval system, as described above, for example in relation to Figure 1.

[0046] As a side support member, the support member may have upper and lower load-transmitting edges so that stackable modules can be stacked on top of each other and can support the weight of a stack of modules that is 10 or more high, and in many cases 15 or more high.

[0047] The portions of the support member that provide the upper and / or lower load-transfer edges can extend the entire length or width of the grid opening in the grid rail system of a vertical farm or other facility framework structure, and as a result these portions of the support member are guided by the sides of the rail and portions of the upright members of the framework structure as stackable modules are moved up and down within the column. The portions of the support member may also be arms and legs of the support member, which extend horizontally from the body in the form of load-bearing columns. The support member may also be I-shaped.

[0048] The spaced-apart first and second support members of the load-bearing frame of the stackable module are configured to allow the stackable module to occupy a rectangular volume capable of internally supporting the functional components of the stackable module. In this way, the stackable module occupies a rectangular volume of columns in the framework structure of a vertical farming facility, similar to how storage containers occupy the rectangular volume of a framework structure of an automated storage and retrieval system as shown in Figure 1.

[0049] The upper load-transferring edge surface of each support member may be provided with a recess positioned to engage with a gripping mechanism of a module handling vehicle of the vertical farming system, so that stackable modules can be lifted, lowered, and transported by the system's module handling vehicle. The module handling vehicle may be the same as or similar to a container handling vehicle of a known automated storage and retrieval system, and the module handling vehicle can handle stackable modules in the same manner as storage containers.

[0050] The recess may take the form of a rectangular slot provided in the upper edge or lip of each side support member. The gripping mechanism may include a gripping portion that is displaced to reach through the rectangular slot and grip the edge of the slot. More preferably, the recess may be provided in the corner region of the upper edge of the support member so that a portion of the gripping mechanism extends through the recess and grips the other side of its edge.

[0051] Stackable modules can be modular in structure, making them easy to manufacture and transport. In this way, stackable modules can be disassembled and transported in so-called "flat packaging" and then assembled in a vertical farming facility. Stackable modules can also be disassembled in a vertical farming facility and reassembled as needed, for example, to aid in storage when not in use.

[0052] The side support members may have multiple vertical grooves provided on their inwardly facing surfaces, thereby allowing the propagation boards, in the case of propagation modules (or other plates), to be positioned at different locations relative to the support members, for example, to accommodate growing plants of different lengths.

[0053] Vertical grooves (or multiple grooves) may be partially or completely provided by vertical slots in the side support members, for example, slots molded on the surface of the inner wall of the side support member, or by multiple lugs protruding from the surface of the inner wall that act to define grooves to guide the edges of the proliferation board as it slides to a position between the side support members. The grooves and engagements in the proliferation board can assist in assembling the proliferation module and / or provide additional rigidity to the structure.

[0054] In some embodiments of the stackable module, the support members may be held in a parallel configuration spaced apart by a plurality of rods or other forms of spacers. The support members may be positioned to extend horizontally across the top and bottom of the stackable module. The support members may include slots or other support-forming parts for supporting plates or other functional components, preferably in a vertical orientation, within the rectangular volume defined by the stackable module. Such a stackable module may be a modular structure that allows for on-site assembly and disassembly, for example, by allowing different plates providing different functions to be loaded into the frame of the stackable module, for example, by sliding a new plate into a slot to replace an old one. Such plates may include growing media that allow the stackable module to be reloaded or harvested, or other functional components such as heaters, light sources, fans, insulation, fire protection, etc., that allow the stackable module to provide alternative functions.

[0055] In a stackable propagation module, the propagation board may be supported between a pair of support members, preferably side support members in the form of I-shaped pillars. The propagation board may have tabs on each side edge face that are received in vertical slots on the inner surface of the support members. The side support members may be molded parts and may be available on either the left or right side of the stackable module to reduce manufacturing costs. Fasteners may be used to secure the propagation board in place between the support members.

[0056] Using such stackable propagation modules, plants can grow horizontally from propagation boards with vertical slots, and since the propagation modules do not need to have solid walls in a box-shaped storage container, light and airflow can be provided to the plants from the side of the stack of stackable modules in a column of vertical agricultural facilities, rather than requiring a light source placed above each individual container of the type with horizontal propagation trays. This has advantages in that it is powered in response to such services.

[0057] Stackable modules, particularly those in the form of modular stackable modules, will be described in detail in relation to vertical farming systems, but it should be understood that stackable modules, for example in the form of modular stackable modules, can be used in automated storage and retrieval systems for purposes other than vertical farming. Vertical plates inserted into grooves in the side support members may have functions different from those of the propagation board. Vertical plates may be equipped with, for example, LED lamps or other types of light sources, and plates may support sensors, or in fact any other type of equipment, such as fans, heaters, coolers, fire protection equipment, or any other type of function where a box-shaped storage container may not be needed or desirable. Vertical plates may be made of flame-retardant material to form a firewall inside the framework structure, or plates may include insulating material to form different temperature zones within the framework, reflective material to guide light, absorbent material to absorb moisture, etc.

[0058] In a second aspect, the present invention relates to an integrated non-drip watering system for watering plants grown in a vertical farming system. The watering system may comprise a growth board having a non-drip function as described above, and a portable watering unit in the form of a water tank module, if necessary.

[0059] According to this embodiment, receptacles holding vertically aligned breeding boards can be arranged in a stack. In one embodiment, the receptacles can be arranged in a stack within a storage column of a framework structure of an automated storage and retrieval system (e.g., the automated storage and retrieval system described above), so that all the breeding boards in the stack can be aligned vertically to one another. In another embodiment, the receptacles may be arranged in a stack that is not within a storage column of an automated storage and retrieval system, for example, in a freestanding stack in an open floor plan arrangement.

[0060] A preferred water supply system for this embodiment is described below, and the illustrated receptacle is the aforementioned modular, stackable module. However, it should be understood that other types of receptacles can also be employed for vertically aligning and holding the growth boards. For example, a rigid box-shaped container from which most of the material has been removed from the four walls and floor (leaving four corner posts) can hold the growth boards.

[0061] As described above, the growth board supports or comprises a growth medium. In one embodiment, the growth medium is a porous material such as a fiberboard (e.g., an insulating material) or another suitable hydroponic medium. The porous growth medium has properties that allow the material to be rapidly saturated with water, so that the water passes through the growth medium, permeates from the bottom of the upper growth board to the top of the subsequent lower growth boards, and so on, down the entire length of the stack, and finally drains from the bottom of the lowest growth board in a dripping or other manner.

[0062] In a preferred configuration, a longitudinal water supply trough, which may have a series of holes, is located at the upper edge of the growth board. This allows water introduced into the water supply trough to be distributed along the upper edge of the growth medium through the holes in the water supply trough. A longitudinal collection trough is located at the lower edge of the growth board. Water seeping from the bottom of the growth medium can then be collected in the collection trough. The collection trough may have one or more openings that allow the water collected in the collection trough to drip into the water supply trough of the growth board located below. In a preferred configuration, the collection trough may have a single opening in the form of a drain for the collection trough, which may be centrally located along the collection trough to provide a simple drainage solution. Other configurations, such as two or more spaced-apart openings, are also conceivable.

[0063] According to one embodiment, the water supply trough and collection trough are integrated parts of the breeding board, for example, parts of the frame member surrounding the periphery of the vertical substrate surface of the breeding board.

[0064] According to another embodiment of the water supply system, one or more openings in the collection trough have a valve that, in the open position, allows water to flow downward and out of the collection trough, but in the closed position prevents water from flowing out of the collection trough. In this way, the valve can be actuated to the open position when the breeding boards are placed in a stack, but can be switched back to the closed position when the breeding frame holding the breeding boards is lifted and transported by a module handling vehicle of the vertical farming system. This prevents water from dripping onto the tracks of the rail system when the breeding frame is transported above the rail system. The valve can be actuated by the act of stacking breeding boards on top of another breeding board, or by a structure having a device for opening the valve.

[0065] The valves in the collection troughs can be actuated in several ways, including electrically or mechanically, as is common with valves known in the art.

[0066] In a preferred embodiment, the valve comprises sealing members such as balls (e.g., metal balls (e.g., steel balls such as stainless steel ball bearings)), ceramic balls (e.g., balls made of stone or glass), high-density plastic balls (e.g., having a density higher than water), flaps, or other suitable sealing structures that seat on or otherwise seal the opening at the bottom of the collection trough.

[0067] According to this embodiment, each of the water supply troughs of the breeding board can be equipped with an upwardly projecting pin that aligns with the upper opening of the collection trough when the frames are stacked in the storage column. In this way, when stackable modules are stacked, the pin of the lower breeding board pushes the ball (or other device) of the valve of the collection trough directly upward within the stack, allowing water to flow from the collection trough to the water supply trough of the lower breeding board. In addition, when the stackable modules are lifted by a module handling vehicle, the ball can fall into its corresponding position in the hole, thus preventing water from dripping from the collection trough while the frames are transported along the rail system of the framework structure.

[0068] At the bottom of the stack, a water collection / drainage means may be provided to collect water flowing out from the collection trough of the breeding board at the bottom of the stack. This can take the form of a drain pipe connected to a drain nozzle having a pin that activates a valve on the breeding board at the bottom of the stack.

[0069] Non-drip water systems may also include a portable water tank, which in a preferred embodiment may be mounted between the side support members of a modular frame. The portable water tank may be provided as a water tank module usable in the framework structure of an automated system such as a vertical farming facility. The water tank is filled with water at a filling station, which may be transported by a module handling vehicle (or other lifting device such as a gantry) and placed at the top position in a column of the framework structure of a vertical farming or other system on a stack of stackable modules.

[0070] According to one embodiment, such a water tank module may have a valve similar to the valve described above for the collection trough, and in a preferred embodiment, a ball or other sealing member actuated by a pin on the topmost growth board of the stack. The portable water tank provided by the water tank module avoids the need to retrofit or install water pipes and other water supply infrastructure into the framework structure of the vertical farming system and further allows for the provision of customized nutrient blends for each stack of the vertical farm. Nutrient blends customized to the specific needs of the type of plants growing in a particular stack can be added to the water tank at the time of filling. The water tank module may be configured to release water (and any nutrients) at a predetermined rate to the growth module at the top of a given stack of the module.

[0071] In another embodiment, the present invention provides a complete vertical farming system comprising the aforementioned modular, stackable modules / growth boards and non-drip watering devices, which are employed in the infrastructure of the automated storage and recovery system described in the background art section above, including a framework structure, automated handling vehicles, a control system, and other embodiments of the prior art storage and recovery system.

[0072] The vertical farming system according to this embodiment comprises stackable modules that hold propagation boards arranged in storage columns of a framework structure. When used as a vertical farming system, it may be convenient to refer to the modular, stackable modules supporting the propagation boards as “propagation frames.” In one embodiment, the propagation frames may be arranged in adjacent columns of the vertical farming system such that stacks of propagation frames are arranged in adjacent columns of columns. It is also possible to arrange the propagation frames in alternating rows of columns, with empty rows of columns between the rows containing plants. Lighting means and / or active or passive ventilation means for the plants may be arranged between the rows of columns containing plants, whether in the space between adjacent rows of columns containing plants or in the empty rows between alternating rows of columns containing plants. The choice of which arrangement to use may depend on factors such as the needs of the plant species. For example, some species may require greater airflow or more frequent tending or visual inspection, in which case it may be advantageous to use alternating rows of columns to grow the plants. In other situations, plant requirements may allow for a higher density arrangement of adjacent rows of columns containing growing plants. Employing empty rows between columns without plants can provide easier access for plant management and other visual monitoring, or allow for greater airflow, but at the cost of lower crop yield per unit area.

[0073] According to one embodiment, the spacer module is positioned at the bottom of the storage column on which the stackable modules are stacked. Thus, the spacer module in the row of columns containing plants forms a passage below the stackable modules for arranging water conduits, ventilation pipes, electrical wiring, and other infrastructure. According to one embodiment, the spacer module is equipped with a drainage nozzle with a pin that activates a valve in the collection trough of the bottommost propagation board. The spacer module may be equipped with a pair of lateral support members held in a spaced-out relationship by some form of transverse member. Since the spacer module is not subject to the same concerns as the propagation module described above, the spacer module may use lateral support members similar to those proposed above for the propagation module to save on manufacturing costs, but may include additional components to help support and stabilize the load above the stack.

[0074] Various aspects of the present invention can be summarized and described as follows.

[0075] A stackable module having functional components, The stackable module comprises a load-bearing frame having first and second support members held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration by horizontal members, the horizontal members forming part of the functional components. As a result, the load-bearing frame is configured to allow stackable modules to occupy the rectangular volume in which the functional components are supported internally. The load-bearing frame has upper and lower load-transmitting edges, Stackable modules.

[0076] The functional components may also be functional components of a vertical farming system.

[0077] A kit of parts for assembling stackable modules that comprise functional components of a vertical farming facility, A first support member and a second support member for forming a load-bearing frame, It is a horizontal member, Proliferation board, A water tank, or water tank frame, and a water tank assembly, which may include a water tank if necessary. Spacer frame equipped with drainage device, A lighting frame that supports the lighting to illuminate the plants growing from the side of the stack. A ventilation frame configured to support a ventilation source for ventilating plants from the side of the stack. A horizontal member equipped with one of the following, A kit of parts that includes the following components.

[0078] A framework structure comprising multiple upright members supporting a grid rail system, wherein the grid rail system comprises rails positioned at the upper level of the framework structure in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the rails and upright members define columns in which stackable modules are stacked internally as described above. One or more module handling vehicles, which travel along a rail system and are arranged to transport modules, each module handling vehicle being equipped with a gripping mechanism configured to grip the top surface of a stackable module in order to lower the stackable module into a column or to lift the stackable module out of a column, A control system configured to control the operation of one or more module handling vehicles, An automated vertical farming facility equipped with [specific features / features]. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0079] Brief explanation of the drawing The following drawings are provided to facilitate understanding of the present invention. The drawings illustrate embodiments of the present invention, which are described herein for illustrative purposes only. [Figure 1] This is a perspective view of the framework structure of a conventional automated storage and retrieval system suitable for use in the proposed embodiment of a vertical farming system. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view of a conventional container handling vehicle that may be suitable for transporting stackable modules, with internal cavities for transporting storage containers. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view of a conventional container handling vehicle having a cantilever for lowering storage containers and which may be suitable for transporting stackable modules. [Figure 4] This is a bottom-up perspective view of a conventional container handling vehicle that may be suitable for transporting stackable modules, with internal cavities for transporting storage containers. [Figure 5] This is an exploded perspective view of one embodiment of a modular, stackable module, showing that the proliferation board is assembled between a pair of support members. [Figure 6] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the stackable module assembly, with the proliferation board positioned between a pair of support members. [Figure 7] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the stackable module in which the propagation boards are arranged in an alternative configuration. [Figure 8] Figure 5 is a perspective view of the stackable module, in which a second proliferation board is positioned at a further location between the support members. [Figure 9] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having side support members. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having side support members. [Figure 11] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having upper and lower support members. [Figure 12]This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having upper and lower support members. [Figure 13] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having side support members. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having side support members. [Figure 15] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having upper and lower support members. [Figure 16] This is a perspective view of another embodiment of a stackable module, showing a stackable module having upper and lower support members. [Figure 17] This is an exploded view of one embodiment of a modular, stackable module arranged as a growth frame, in which a growth medium is provided on the opposing surfaces of rectangular plates on the growth board. [Figure 18] Figure 17 is a perspective view of an assembled propagation frame, showing stackable propagation modules in which plants grow horizontally from vertically positioned propagation media. [Figure 19] This is a perspective view of a preferred set of components for a non-drip water supply system according to one aspect of the present invention. [Figure 20] This is a perspective view of the components of a non-drip watering system in a stack, comprising a stack of propagation modules that provide a propagation frame for growing plants, a water tank module at the top of the stack that provides a portable watering tank for supplying water to the plants in the stack, and a spacer module at the bottom of the stack that provides space below the propagation modules for draining and collecting water. [Figure 21]Figure 20 is a perspective section of the components of a non-drip water supply system, showing the collection trough, water supply trough, and valves of the non-drip water supply system. Conduits for drainage and other services are also shown in spacer modules. Details of the valves and actuators for the valves are shown in a magnified view. [Figure 22] This is a perspective view of a water tank module that provides a portable water supply tank for use in a system. [Figure 23] This is a perspective view of a spacer module, showing actuators for the valves of the growth modules when stacked on top of each other, and drain nozzles for collecting wastewater, both of which are provided on transverse members that hold the side support members in a spaced-out parallel configuration. [Figure 24] This is a perspective view of a vertical farming system that utilizes stackable modules (propagation modules, water tank modules, and spacer modules) in a framework structure of a vertical farming facility (mirroring the infrastructure of the automated storage and retrieval system shown in Figure 1). [Figure 25] This is a perspective view of a vertical farming system that utilizes stackable modules (propagation modules, water tank modules, and spacer modules) in a framework structure of a vertical farming facility (mirroring the infrastructure of the automated storage and retrieval system shown in Figure 1). [Figure 26] This is a perspective view of a vertical farming system that utilizes stackable modules (propagation modules, water tank modules, and spacer modules) in a framework structure of a vertical farming facility (mirroring the infrastructure of the automated storage and retrieval system shown in Figure 1). [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0080] Detailed description of the invention In summary, this disclosure relates to stackable modules comprising functional components, such as functional components of a vertical farming system. The functional component is a part of a transverse member held by a load-bearing frame comprising two support members held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration. Because the support members are held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration, the frame does not obstruct access to the functional component. Thus, any plants or consumables (such as water, battery power, or ventilation sources) supported by or on the functional component can be easily harvested or reloaded, respectively, without being obstructed by the support members. Furthermore, because the frame does not obstruct the functional component, the frame also does not cast a large shadow on the plants supported by the functional component, thereby enabling efficient plant propagation, particularly compared to vertical farms where plants are supported on a horizontal plane.

[0081] Furthermore, the load-bearing frame may be configured to allow stackable modules to occupy a rectangular volume. This allows the load-bearing frame to be stored in a storage column of a known automated storage and retrieval system without the need to redesign the storage system. To facilitate storage in the storage columns of larger storage systems, the load-bearing frame may be provided with upper and lower load-transferring edges. Moreover, the stackable modules described herein are less expensive and easier to manufacture than conventional storage containers in known storage systems, at least due to reduced material costs.

[0082] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in more detail below with reference to the accompanying drawings. However, it should be understood that the drawings are not intended to limit the present invention to the subject matter shown in the drawings.

[0083] According to one or more aspects of the present invention, the present invention comprises an automated storage and retrieval system infrastructure including a framework structure 100, a rail system 108, storage columns 105, automated container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401, and a control system 500, as described in the background art section and illustrated in Figures 1 to 4. The framework structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 is constructed in a manner similar to the prior art framework structure 100 described above in relation to Figures 1 to 4. That is, the framework structure 100 comprises several upright members 102 and a first upper rail system 108 extending in the X and Y directions.

[0084] The framework structure 100 further comprises storage compartments in the form of storage columns 105 provided between members 102, and storage containers 106 are stackable in stacks 107 within the storage columns 105.

[0085] The framework structure 100 can be of any dimensions. In particular, it is understood that the framework structure can be considerably wider and / or longer and / or deeper than disclosed in Figure 1. For example, the framework structure 100 may have a horizontal spread of more than 700 × 700 columns and a storage depth of more than 12 containers.

[0086] The infrastructure of the automated storage and retrieval system is arranged as a vertical farming system according to one aspect of the present invention. In the context of the present invention, the term “vertical farming” refers to a system for growing plants in receptacles that can be stacked within storage columns of framework 100 and can be lifted, lowered, and transported by container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401. Thus, the term “container handling vehicle” in the context of vertical farming of the present invention can be understood to mean an automated vehicle arranged to lift, lower, and transport on rail system 108 receptacles that hold plants in a vertical farm. In the present invention, the receptacles are in the form of stackable modules that can be stacked within columns of a framework structure. The stackable modules (described in more detail below) are configured to be stacked on top of other modules to occupy a rectangular volume within a column, similar to storage containers in known automated storage and retrieval systems. The vertical farming system of the present invention is at least partially automated, and various tasks and controls are performed by automated container handling vehicles, control system 500, and other structures and systems described in more detail below.

[0087] Stackable modules As described above, the plants in the vertical farming system of the present invention are grown in receptacles that can be arranged in a self-supporting stack in a storage column 105, for example. In one embodiment, the present invention provides a novel receptacle in the form of a stackable module 10, as illustrated in various embodiments of Figures 5 to 16. The stackable module 10 has a footprint essentially equal to the footprint of a storage container 106 of an automated storage and retrieval system, so that the stackable modules can be stacked in a storage column 105. The stackable module comprises means for supporting vertically aligned transverse members 12 having plate-like bodies 40 for supporting a growing medium 18, and load-bearing means 14, which is in the form of a side support member 22, for supporting the weight of a stack of multiple other stackable modules or containers 106 arranged above the stackable module in the storage column, and means for engaging with a gripping mechanism of a module handling vehicle, which may be the same as or similar to the gripping mechanism of a conventional container handling vehicle shown in Figure 3 or Figure 4.

[0088] In relation to the vertical farming system described later, the horizontal members 12 are positioned as growth boards 16, providing vertical plate-shaped substrates for supporting the growth medium 18 on which the plants 20 are grown (see Figure 17). When used to support the growth boards, the stackable modules 10 can be called stackable growth modules. Because the growth boards 16 are aligned vertically within the growth modules 10, the plants 20 grow horizontally from the growth medium 18.

[0089] While the stackable module 10 will be described in detail in relation to the vertical farming system, it should be understood that the horizontal members 12 can have many other functions. For example, the horizontal members 12 can be equipped with a power supply for providing power to equipment inside the framework 100. The horizontal members 12 can be equipped with LED lights, sensors, fans, or other equipment. The horizontal members 12 can be made of flame-retardant or insulating material, or can be used to support such material so as to form a firewall, thermal partition, or soundproofing material when stacked in rows of adjacent columns. The horizontal members 12 may have the same plate-like form as shown in Figure 5, with the rectangular body of the horizontal member 12 supporting components that provide other functions, thus improving the functionality of the components, or it may have a different shape, or may include material that is loaded in position between a pair of support members 22 and provides other functions.

[0090] Figures 5 to 8 illustrate a first embodiment of the stackable module 10. According to this embodiment, the means for supporting the crossbar 12 comprises two side support members 22. In a preferred embodiment, the support members 22 are identical so that the side support members 22 can be used on both sides of the crossbar 12. In a preferred embodiment, the side support members 22 are "I" shaped so that the vertical segments of the "I" are positioned to cast minimal shadows on the crossbar 12 when illuminated by a light source at an oblique angle to the crossbar. This is particularly valuable when the crossbar 12 is used as a propagation board 16 for growing plants. The vertical segments of the "I" can have a width corresponding to less than half the total width of the side support member 22 so as to minimize the shadows cast on the plants.

[0091] Furthermore, according to this embodiment, the side support member 22 includes one or more vertical grooves 24 arranged to receive cooperating protrusions or tabs 46 positioned on the transverse member 12. As shown in Figure 7, the grooves 24 may be arranged to provide alternating lateral positions on the transverse member 12.

[0092] The side support members 22 are preferably made of injection-molded plastic. The side support members 22 may include vertically extending ribs to reinforce the side support members 22 and assist in load transmission. The side support members 22 may be molded to include grooves 24, recesses 30 for the gripping mechanism of the module handling vehicle, holes for fasteners, and other such features as needed.

[0093] According to the embodiments shown in Figures 5 to 8, the side support member 22 itself is the load-bearing means 14, and the side support member 22 has upper and lower load-transmitting edge surfaces 26 and 28, respectively. These load-transmitting edge surfaces preferably have a length corresponding to the lateral dimensions of the storage container 106 of the automated storage and retrieval system, so that the stackable module 10 has a corresponding footprint. A notch 30 is positioned along the upper load-transmitting edge surface 26 to engage with the gripping mechanism of the module handling vehicle.

[0094] Figures 9 to 16 illustrate alternative embodiments of the stackable module 10.

[0095] Figures 9 and 10 illustrate an embodiment having a rectangular side support member 32. Similar to the previously described embodiment, this embodiment has upper and lower load-transmitting edges and notches for engaging with the gripping mechanism of the module handling vehicle. The rectangular side support member 32 is provided with an opening to minimize its influence on providing light and / or ventilation to the cross member 12.

[0096] Figure 10 shows the plate member 12 fitted into the groove 24. In this embodiment, the spacer rod 34 separates the side support member 32 and provides lateral stabilization to the side support member 32.

[0097] Figures 11 and 12 illustrate embodiments having upper and lower rectangular support members 36 and 38, respectively. The rectangular support members have one or more grooves for supporting the plate member 12 and have a footprint corresponding to the storage container 106. The upper rectangular support member 36 and the lower rectangular support member 38 are provided with openings to minimize the effect of shadows. According to this embodiment, the load-bearing means 14 is provided in the form of a plurality of support rods 39 positioned at the corners of the rectangular support members 36, 38. The load-bearing means 14 may be provided in the form of a wider support when shadow projection is not considered. In these embodiments, the support members 36, 38 are held in a spaced-out parallel relationship by the support rods 39, and they collectively provide transverse members to maintain their relationship.

[0098] Figures 13 and 14 illustrate an embodiment having I-shaped side support members 22 spaced apart by spacer rods 34. Figures 14 and 16 illustrate an embodiment in which the upper and lower support members 36 and 38 have shapes other than rectangles in the illustrated example having an "X" shape. In this embodiment, the load-bearing means 14 is a support rod 39.

[0099] Non-drip water supply system Plants 20 grown in a vertical farming system require water to grow. Plants 20 may also require specific nutrients or nutrient blends to grow and yield the best possible harvest. According to one embodiment, the present invention provides a watering system for plants grown on a growing medium 18 supported by a growing board 16 supported by receptacles hereafter referred to as “growing modules,” wherein multiple such growing modules are stacked within a vertical farming facility. The watering system is described below in an embodiment where the watering system is implemented in an automated storage and retrieval system infrastructure and the growing modules are stacked within a storage column 105. However, it should be understood that the watering system can be implemented in other types of vertical farming systems. For example, the growing modules may be arranged in a freestanding stack within a facility with an open floor plan where the growing modules are placed on top of each other by any suitable type of module handling device, such as a gantry crane. The growing modules can also be stacked manually.

[0100] The growth board 16 is mounted inside the receptacles so that the growth media 18 in each receptacle in the stack of receptacles are vertically aligned, as shown in Figures 20, 24, and 26. When vertically aligned, water is introduced into the growth media of the topmost receptacle. The growth media is preferably porous and has properties that allow the growth media to saturate rapidly, so that when more water is introduced beyond the saturation point, the water drips down or otherwise drains from the top growth media to the growth media immediately below. When this next growth media itself becomes saturated, it in turn drips or drains water into the growth media below it. This process continues along the length of the stack, saturating all of the growth media with water, which exits the stack by dripping or otherwise draining from the bottom growth media of the stack of receptacles.

[0101] As can be understood, when the receptacle holding the growth medium is lifted from the column and transported along the rail system 108 by module handling vehicles 201, 301, 401, water dripping from the bottom of the growth medium presents a technical challenge. The water drips from the bottom of the growth medium into the track of the rail system, which can interfere with the operation of the vehicles. Therefore, according to one embodiment, the water supply system of the present invention provides a non-dripping function.

[0102] According to one embodiment of the water supply system of the present invention, the receptacle on which the growth board 16 is mounted is the stackable module 10 according to the present invention, as described above. This embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to embodiments of the stackable module shown in Figures 17 and 18, but alternative embodiments of the stackable module 10 shown in Figures 9 to 16 are also within the scope of this embodiment of the present invention. Although the present invention will be described in relation to the stackable module 10, it should be understood that the non-drip function of the water system will function with other types of receptacles supporting vertically aligned growth boards, such as storage containers 106, as long as the vertically aligned growth media 18 in the stack are in fluid communication with each other.

[0103] The water supply system of the present invention comprises a growth board 16, as shown in embodiments in Figures 5-8, 17 and 19. The growth board 16 comprises a vertical surface 40. The vertical surface 40 may be perforated by a plurality of holes 42. Around the vertical surface 40 is a wall of a frame member 44. The frame member 44 has raised or protruding portions 46 that are inserted into grooves located in the side support members 22 of the stackable module 10. More than one groove can be provided in the side support members 22, allowing for various configurations of the growth board 16, as shown in Figures 7 and 8, and allowing water to be drained from one to the next, as long as each growth board in the stack of stackable modules is aligned vertically within the stack. Mounting means 41 are provided for fixing the growth medium 18 to the vertical surface 40. According to one embodiment, the mounting means 41 includes a retaining rod 43 positioned to be inserted into a hole along the side edge of the frame member 44, as shown in Figures 17 and 18, the retaining rod passing in front of the growth medium 18 and firmly holding the growth medium against the vertical surface 40.

[0104] The water supply trough 48 is positioned along the upper edge of the growth board 16. In one embodiment, the water supply trough 48 is integrated with the upper edge of the frame member 44. The water supply trough 48 is provided with one or more water distribution holes 50 along its length. The holes 50 are positioned so that water introduced into the water supply trough 48 flows through the holes 50 to the upper edge of the growth medium 18.

[0105] The water collection trough 52 is positioned below the lower edge of the growth medium 18 and along the lower edge of the growth board 16 when the growth medium 18 is fixed to the vertical surface 40, as shown in Figure 18. The water collection trough 52 collects water dripping from the saturated growth medium 18. According to one embodiment, the water collection trough 52 is an integrated lower part of the frame member 44. The water collection trough 52 further comprises a channel 54 with a valve 56. When the valve 56 is in the open position, water can flow downward from the collection trough 52. Thus, when placed in a stack of stackable modules, the water flowing out of the channel 54 flows into the water supply trough 48 of the next lower growth board in the stack.

[0106] The valve 56 may be any type of valve known to those skilled in the art, and may function based on any actuation mechanism known to those skilled in the art. According to a preferred embodiment, the valve 56 comprises a movable body that is sealed and placed in a channel 54. According to one embodiment, the movable body is a ball 58, such as a steel ball or a ball bearing. The movable body may also include a flap or other suitable seal. When the ball 58 is placed in the channel 54, the valve 56 is in the closed position, and when the ball 58 is pushed up, the valve 56 is in the open position. According to a preferred embodiment, the ball 58 is pushed up by a pin 60 located in a water supply trough 48 of a lower stackable module. The length and position of the pin 60 are selected so that when the first growth board 16 is positioned on top of the second growth board 16 in the stack, the pin 60 in the water supply trough of the second growth board pushes up the ball 58 in the collection trough of the first growth board. This allows water to flow through all the growth media in the stack. When the stackable module 10 is lifted from the stack by the module handling vehicle, the ball 58 falls into position in the waterway 54, thus closing the valve 56. The growth module 10, holding the saturated growth medium, can then be transported along the rail system without water dripping onto the tracks of the rail system.

[0107] A water supply system according to one embodiment of the present invention also comprises a portable water tank 70 in the form of a water tank module that can be moved using a module handling vehicle or other lifting device, as shown in Figures 19, 20, 22, and 24. The water tank module 70 is transportable by the module handling vehicle, similar to how a container handling vehicle in an automated storage and retrieval system can transport storage containers. According to one embodiment, the water tank module 70 is mounted between side support members 22, and thus the same side support members 22 for stackable modules 10 can be used together with the water tank module 70, thereby utilizing manufacturing logistics. In one embodiment, the water tank of the water tank module 70 is mounted to the side support members 22 by a water tank bracket 72. The water tank module 70 comprises a water tank valve 74, which in a preferred embodiment is actuated to the open position by a pin 60 on the top growth board of the growth module 10 in the stack on which the water tank module 70 is placed. The water tank valve 74 can operate in the same principle as the valve 56.

[0108] The water tank of the water tank module 70 is filled with water at a filling station or other suitable location and transported by a module handling vehicle to a stack of growth modules 10 in the column and placed on top of them, after which the water tank valve 74 is operated to the open position so that the water begins to flow down along the growth medium of the stack. In one embodiment, a nutrient blend can be added to the water tank at the time of filling. The water tank module 70 may be equipped with means for monitoring the water level in the water tank. Such means may be visual means such as a water tank made of transparent material, or the water tank may be equipped with a water level sensor that communicates with a control system 500 of an automated storage and recovery system, thereby allowing the water tank module to be automatically refilled by the system when needed. In such a case, the filled water tank module 70 may be transported to the stack at the same time as, or near the time, an empty water tank module 70 is recovered for filling.

[0109] As can be understood, the water collection trough 60 of the bottom growth board 16 of the stack can be completely filled with water seeping through the stack. Thus, a water supply system according to one embodiment provides a drain nozzle 76 positioned to actuate a valve 56 in the bottom collection trough 60, which leads to the wastewater being discarded or collected and reused. In one embodiment, the drain nozzle 76 is located within a spacer module 78 as shown in Figure 23. Multiple spacer modules 78 arranged in a row of columns containing plants form a passage through which drain pipes, ventilation ducts, electrical wiring or other infrastructure equipment connected to the drain nozzle 76 can be routed. According to a preferred embodiment, the spacer module 78 comprises two lateral support members 22, between which an extension bracket 80 is mounted to hold the nozzle 76 in a higher position. In a preferred embodiment, the extension bracket 80 is identical to a water tank bracket 72, simply installed upside down. Similarly, the drain nozzle 76 may have the same components as a water tank valve, which has both a sealing means and an operating pin. In this preferred embodiment, the various components of the stackable modules, water tank modules, and spacer modules are all interchangeable and modular, and such modularity offers manufacturing and logistical advantages.

[0110] Fully Vertical Farming System In another embodiment, the present invention provides a complete vertical farming system and method, as illustrated in Figures 24, 25, and 26. In a preferred embodiment, the vertical farming system comprises the aforementioned stackable modules, propagation boards, and water supply system, implemented in an automated storage and retrieval system infrastructure. Plants are grown in propagation media supported by the stackable modules. Multiple such stackable modules are arranged in a stack in storage columns of a framework structure 100. Lighting and / or ventilation are provided to the plants from the sides of the storage columns, which is made possible by the fact that the plants grow horizontally from propagation boards that do not have side walls that block light or airflow. A container handling vehicle of the system places the stackable modules into the storage columns to form a stack and transports a water tank module 70 to the top of the stack. The container handling vehicle retrieves the stackable modules and transports them to a harvesting location at an appropriate time, and its activities may be automatically directed by a control system 500. Water flowing out from the bottom of the stack is collected and recycled. Therefore, the vertical farming system of the present invention can be implemented relatively easily in automated storage and retrieval facilities because many of its components are modular and easy to manufacture and transport. The water tank module eliminates the need for a complex water supply infrastructure installed in the framework. In a preferred embodiment, sections of the framework structure 100 may be installed in a closed, environmentally controlled space based on the needs of the plants.

[0111] In the preceding description, various aspects of the vertical farming system and related components according to the present invention have been described with reference to exemplary embodiments. For explanatory purposes, a specific number of systems and configurations have been described to provide a complete understanding of the system and how it works. However, this description is not intended to be constrained. Various modifications and variations of the exemplary embodiments, as well as other embodiments of the system that are apparent to those skilled in the art with respect to the disclosed subject matter, are considered to be within the scope of the invention.

[0112] This disclosure also includes the following: Item 1. A stackable module comprising functional components, The stackable module comprises a load-bearing frame having first and second support members held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration by horizontal members, the horizontal members forming part of the functional components. As a result, the load-bearing frame is configured to allow stackable modules to occupy the rectangular volume in which the functional components are supported internally. The load-bearing frame has upper and lower load-transmitting edges, Stackable modules. Item 2. A stackable module as described in Item 1, wherein the functional components are functional components of a vertical farming system. Item 3. The stackable module according to Item 2, wherein the upper load-transmitting edge surface is provided with a recess arranged to engage with a gripping mechanism of a module handling vehicle for vertical agricultural facilities. Item 4. The stackable module according to Item 1 or 2, wherein the first support member and the second support member are, if necessary, side support members in the form of a column, and if necessary, the side support members have an I-shaped outline. Item 5. The stackable module as described in Item 4, wherein each of the side support members comprises a vertical guide, which is optionally configured as a slot, for receiving a portion of the functional components. Item 6. The horizontal members are, Multiple rods, Vertical plate for supporting porous growth medium, A frame or plate for supporting a light source or ventilation source. Frame for supporting the water tank, Frame for supporting a drainage device or water collection device, A stackable module as described in item 5, comprising one of the following: Section 7. The stackable module is a stackable propagation module, and its functional components include a vertically positioned propagation board for supporting the plant, the propagation board is, Porous growth medium and A water supply trough positioned along the upper edge of a growth board, having water distribution holes for distributing water to the growth medium, A water collection trough positioned along the lower edge of a growth board to collect water discharged from a growth medium, the water collection trough having a valve configured to open when a growth module is placed in a stack to allow water to drain, and to close when the growth module is lifted out of the stack, A stackable module as described in item 2, comprising the features described in item 2. Item 8. The stackable module is a stackable water supply module, the stackable module according to Item 2, wherein the functional components include a water tank or a water tank frame configured to support a water tank, and optionally a water tank supported within the frame. Item 9. The stackable module according to Item 2, wherein the stackable module is a stackable spacer module and the functional component comprises a drainage frame equipped with a drainage nozzle. Item 10. The stackable module according to Item 2, wherein the stackable module is a stackable lighting module, and the functional components include a light source for illuminating growing plants, and the light source is, if necessary, supported by a horizontal member separating the first and second support frames. Item 11. The stackable module according to Item 2, wherein the stackable module is a ventilation module, and the functional components include ventilation sources for ventilating plants from the sides of the stack, and the ventilation sources are, if necessary, supported by transverse members separating the first and second support frames. Item 12. A kit of parts for assembling stackable modules comprising functional components of a vertical agricultural facility, A first support member and a second support member for forming a load-bearing frame, It is a horizontal member, Proliferation board, A water tank, or water tank frame, and a water tank assembly, which may include a water tank if necessary. Spacer frame equipped with drainage device, A lighting frame that supports the lighting to illuminate the plants growing from the side of the stack. A ventilation frame configured to support a ventilation source for ventilating plants from the side of the stack. A horizontal member equipped with one of the following, A kit of parts that includes the following components. Section 13. A method for assembling stackable modules comprising functional components of a vertical farming facility from the kit of parts described in Section 12, To fix a horizontal member between the first support member and the second support member, A method that includes this. Item 14. A framework structure comprising a plurality of upright members supporting a grid rail system, wherein the grid rail system comprises rails positioned at the upper level of the framework structure in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the rails and upright members define columns in which stackable modules are stacked internally, and the stackable modules comprise functional components. The stackable modules are supported by a load-bearing frame comprising a first support member and a second support member held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration by horizontal members, wherein the horizontal members form part of a functional component, thereby allowing the stackable modules to occupy a rectangular volume in which the functional component is supported internally, and the load-bearing frame comprises upper and lower load-transmitting edges. Framework structure and One or more module handling vehicles, which travel along a rail system and are arranged to transport modules, each module handling vehicle being equipped with a gripping mechanism configured to grip the top surface of a stackable module in order to lower the stackable module into a column or to lift the stackable module out of a column, A control system configured to control the operation of one or more module handling vehicles, An automated vertical farming facility equipped with [specific features / features]. Item 14a. A framework structure comprising a plurality of upright members supporting a grid rail system, wherein the grid rail system comprises rails positioned at the upper level of the framework structure in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and the rails and upright members define columns in which stackable modules according to any one of items 1 to 11 are stacked inside the framework structure, One or more module handling vehicles, which travel along a rail system and are arranged to transport modules, each module handling vehicle being equipped with a gripping mechanism configured to grip the top surface of a stackable module in order to lower the stackable module into a column or to lift the stackable module out of a column, A control system configured to control the operation of one or more module handling vehicles, An automated vertical farming facility equipped with [specific features / features]. Item 15. An automated vertical farming facility as described in Item 14 or Item 14a, wherein multiple columns of the framework structure house stacks of stackable modules, and each stack of stackable modules comprises a spacer module located at the bottom of the stack, a water tank module located at the top of the stack, and a plurality of growth modules located between the spacer module and the water tank module. [Explanation of symbols]

[0113] List of reference symbols 1. Conventional automated storage and retrieval systems 100 Framework Structures 102 Upright members of a framework structure 104 Storage Grid 105 Storage Column 106 Storage Containers 106' Specific location of the storage container 107 stacks 108 Rail System 110 Parallel rails in the first direction (X) 112 Access openings 119 First port column 120 Second port column 201 Conventional Container Handling Vehicles 201a Vehicle body of container handling vehicle 201 201b Drive mechanism / Wheel arrangement / First set of wheels in first direction (X) 201c Drive mechanism / Wheel arrangement / Second set of wheels in second direction (Y) 301 Conventional cantilever container handling vehicle 301a Vehicle body of container handling vehicle 301 301b Driven means / First set of wheels in the first direction (X) 301c Drive mechanism / Second set of wheels in the second direction (Y) 304 Gripping device 401 Conventional container handling vehicles 401a Vehicle body of container handling vehicle 401 401b Driven means / First set of wheels in the first direction (X) 401c Drive mechanism / Second set of wheels in the second direction (Y) 404 Gripping device 404a Lifting Band 404b Grip 404c guide pin 404d Lifting Frame 500 Control Systems X First direction Y Second direction Z Third direction 10 stackable modules 12 Crosspiece 14. Load-bearing means 16 Multiplication Board 18 Growth medium 20 plants 22 Side support member 24 vertical groove 26 Upper load-transfer edge surface 28 Lower load-transfer edge surface 30 Notches / recesses 32 Rectangular side support member 34 Spacer Rod 36 Upper support member 38 Lower support member 39 Support rod 40 Vertical board surface 41 Mounting means 42 Perforation 43 Retaining rod 44 Frame members 46. ​​Elevated or protruding portion 48 Water supply trough 50 Water distribution hole 52 Water collection trough 54 waterways 56 valves 58 Ball 60 pins 70 Water Tank Modules / Water Tanks 72 Water Tank Bracket 74 Water Tank Valve 76 Drain nozzle 78 Spacer Modules 80 Extension Bracket

Claims

1. A stackable module having functional components, The stackable module comprises a load-bearing frame having first and second support members held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration by horizontal members, the horizontal members forming part of the functional components, The load-bearing frame is configured such that the stackable modules occupy the rectangular volume in which the functional components are internally supported. Stackable modules.

2. The load-bearing frame comprises upper and lower load-transmitting edges, as described in claim 1, for the stackable module.

3. The stackable module according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the functional component is a functional component of a vertical farming system.

4. The stackable module according to claim 3, wherein the upper load-transmitting edge surface is provided with a recess arranged to engage with a gripping mechanism of a module handling vehicle for vertical agricultural facilities.

5. The stackable module according to any one of the claims, wherein the first support member and the second support member are each side support members.

6. The stackable module according to claim 5, wherein the first support member and the second support member are each side support members in the form of a support column.

7. The stackable module according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the side support member has an I-shaped outer shape.

8. Each of the side support members is provided with a vertical guide, the stackable module according to any one of claims 6 to 7.

9. The stackable module according to claim 8, wherein the vertical guide is configured as a slot for receiving a portion of the functional components.

10. The aforementioned horizontal member is, Multiple rods, Vertical plate for supporting porous growth medium, A frame or plate for supporting a light source or ventilation source. Frame for supporting the water tank, Frame for supporting drainage or water collection devices A stackable module according to any of the above claims, comprising one of the above.

11. The stackable module is a stackable propagation module, and the functional component comprises a vertically positioned propagation board for supporting a plant, the propagation board is Porous growth medium and A water supply trough is arranged along the upper edge of the growth board, and the water supply trough has water distribution holes for distributing water to the growth medium, A water collection trough positioned along the lower edge of the growth board to collect water discharged from the growth medium, wherein the water collection trough has a valve configured to open when the growth module is placed in the stack to allow water to flow out, and to close when the growth module is lifted out of the stack, and A stackable module according to any of the above claims, comprising:

12. The stackable module is a stackable water supply module, and the functional component comprises a water tank or a water tank frame configured to support a water tank, according to any one of the claims.

13. The stackable module according to claim 12, wherein the functional component further comprises the water tank supported within the frame.

14. The stackable module according to any one of the claims, wherein the stackable module is a stackable spacer module, and the functional component comprises a drainage frame equipped with a drainage nozzle.

15. The stackable module according to any one of the claims, wherein the stackable module is a stackable lighting module, and the functional component comprises a light source for illuminating growing plants.

16. The stackable module according to claim 15, wherein the lighting source is supported by a horizontal member separating the first and second support frames.

17. The stackable module according to any one of the claims, wherein the stackable module is a ventilation module, and the functional component comprises a ventilation source for ventilating plants from the side of the stack.

18. The stackable module according to claim 17, wherein the ventilation source is supported by a horizontal member separating the first and second support frames.

19. A kit of parts for assembling stackable modules comprising functional components of a vertical farming facility, wherein the kit of parts comprises: A first support member and a second support member for forming a load-bearing frame, Horizontal members and A kit of parts that includes [the necessary components].

20. The aforementioned horizontal member is, Proliferation board, A water tank, or water tank frame, and a water tank assembly, which may include a water tank if necessary. Spacer frame equipped with drainage device, A lighting frame configured to support lighting for illuminating plants growing from the side of the stack, and / or A ventilation frame configured to support a ventilation source for ventilating plants from the side of the stack. A kit of parts according to claim 19, comprising one of the following.

21. A method for assembling stackable modules comprising functional components of a vertical farming facility from a kit of parts according to claim 19 or claim 20, the method comprising: The horizontal member is fixed between the first support member and the second support member. Methods that include...

22. An automated vertical farming facility, A framework structure comprising multiple upright members that define columns in which stackable modules are stacked internally, wherein the stackable modules comprise functional components, The stackable module comprises a load-bearing frame having first and second support members held in a spaced-apart parallel configuration by horizontal members, the horizontal members forming part of the functional component, and thereby the load-bearing frame is configured such that the stackable module occupies a rectangular parallelepiped volume in which the functional component is internally supported, and One or more module handling vehicles, arranged to travel across the column and transport modules, each module handling vehicle being equipped with a gripping mechanism configured to grip the top surface of a stackable module for lowering the stackable module into the column or lifting the stackable module out of the column, A control system configured to control the operation of one or more module handling vehicles. An automated vertical farming facility equipped with [specific features / features].

23. The automated vertical agricultural facility according to claim 22, wherein the load-bearing frame comprises upper and lower load-transmitting edges.

24. The automated vertical farming facility according to claim 22 or 23, wherein the plurality of upright members support a grid rail system, the grid rail system comprises rails positioned at the upper level of the framework structure in a first direction and a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, the rails and the upright members define the columns, and one or more module handling vehicles are arranged to travel along the rail system and transport modules.

25. An automated vertical farming facility according to any one of claims 22 to 24, wherein a plurality of columns of the framework structure accommodate a stack of the stackable modules, and each stack of stackable modules comprises a spacer module located at the bottom of the stack, a water tank module located at the top of the stack, and a plurality of growth modules located between the spacer module and the water tank module.

Images