Hydroponic cultivation board, manufacturing method of hydroponic cultivation board, hydroponic cultivation board system and hydroponic cultivation bed

Abstract

A hydroponic cultivation board that ensures panel strength and promotes plant growth is provided, as well as a method for manufacturing the hydroponic cultivation board. A hydroponic cultivation board (10) having a plurality of holes (20) is provided, each hole (20) comprising an upper side opening (32) opening to the upper (10a) side of the hydroponic cultivation board (10) into which a plant is inserted, and a lower side opening (42) communicating with the upper side opening (32) opening to the lower (10b) side of the hydroponic cultivation board (10) and having a shape that gradually widens toward the lower (10b) side, the holes (20) being hollow inside, the upper side opening (32) being formed by bending a portion of the upper (10a) side inward, and the lower side opening (42) being formed by bending a portion of the lower (10b) side inward, wherein at least the upper (10a) side is formed of a non-foamed material.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a hydroponic cultivation board, a method for manufacturing the hydroponic cultivation board, a hydroponic cultivation board system, and a hydroponic cultivation bed. Background Technology

[0002] (First viewpoint)

[0003] Panels for hydroponic plant cultivation have been proposed for some time. For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a nutrient solution cultivation panel with multiple planting holes for inserting seedbed components after planting plants, and which can float on the surface of the nutrient solution. Each planting hole on this nutrient solution cultivation panel has a recess opening to the upper side of the panel and a groove opening to the lower side of the panel. The groove opens in a concave manner towards the nutrient solution surface, forming a space surrounded by the nutrient solution and the groove around the seedbed component inserted into the planting hole. Therefore, air can be supplied to the roots of the plant, promoting plant growth.

[0004] (Second viewpoint)

[0005] Patent document 1 discloses a perforated hydroponic cultivation board, in which a cultivation material consisting of plants planted in a seedbed component is inserted into the perforation.

[0006] (Third viewpoint)

[0007] Patent document 1 also discloses a technology that involves arranging and floating multiple panels in series along the long side of a nutrient solution in a slender water tank tray. Seedlings of plants are planted on one end of the water tank tray, and the plants are allowed to grow while the panels are moved to the other end. The grown plants are then harvested at the other end.

[0008] (4th viewpoint)

[0009] A cultivation bed that can be used as a storage tank for storing nutrient solution for hydroponic cultivation of plants has been proposed for some time. For example, Patent Document 2 discloses a plant cultivation unit comprising a resin sheet, a frame supporting the resin sheet in a curved state, and a partition. In this plant cultivation unit, a cultivation solution (nutrient solution) is introduced into a water-retaining portion of a cuboid (generally concave) formed by the resin sheet and the partition for hydroponic cultivation.

[0010] Existing technical documents

[0011] Patent documents

[0012] Patent document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-103203

[0013] Patent document 2: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2020-65510 Summary of the Invention

[0014] (The problem the invention aims to solve)

[0015] (First viewpoint)

[0016] However, in the nutrient solution cultivation plate of Patent Document 1, since the grooves of each planting hole have concave openings facing the nutrient solution surface, the inner surface of the grooves forms a shape that expands in the horizontal direction of the panel. As a result, in the part where the grooves are provided, the width between the grooves and the top surface of the panel becomes smaller, and the thickness of the panel becomes thinner, which may make it impossible to sufficiently ensure the strength of the panel.

[0017] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned reasons, and provides a hydroponic cultivation board that can ensure the strength of the panel while promoting plant growth, and a method for manufacturing the hydroponic cultivation board.

[0018] (Second viewpoint)

[0019] In Patent Document 1, the plant material is held within the holes by friction between the seedbed component and the inner surface of the holes. However, this design is prone to insufficient friction, which may cause the plant material to fall off.

[0020] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned reasons, and provides a board for hydroponic cultivation that can prevent the cultivation material from falling out of the holes.

[0021] (Third viewpoint)

[0022] Multiple panels can be moved simultaneously by pushing the panel closest to one end of the sink tray toward the other. However, because the panels floating on the nutrient solution tend to move vertically, when pushing the panel closest to one end of the sink tray toward the other, a panel may climb onto (ride) onto an adjacent panel.

[0023] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned reasons, and provides a hydroponic cultivation board that, when a panel arranged at one end pushes other panels to move in a series of panels, can prevent one panel from climbing onto an adjacent panel.

[0024] (4th viewpoint)

[0025] However, in the plant cultivation unit of Patent Document 2, the water storage section lacks durability because it is made of resin sheets. Furthermore, cleaning the water storage section requires removing the resin sheets from the frame. Additionally, other components, different from the water storage section, are needed for air and water flow during hydroponics. Therefore, maintaining the various components used for hydroponics becomes difficult.

[0026] The present invention was made in view of the above-mentioned reasons, and its object is to provide a hydroponic cultivation bed with excellent durability and easy maintenance.

[0027] (Technical solutions used to solve the problem)

[0028] (First viewpoint)

[0029] According to the present invention, a hydroponic cultivation board is provided, having a plurality of holes, characterized in that each hole includes an upper side opening that opens to the upper side of the hydroponic cultivation board into which a plant is inserted, and a lower side opening that communicates with the upper side opening and opens to the lower side of the hydroponic cultivation board and has a shape that gradually widens towards the lower side, wherein the interior of the hydroponic cultivation board is hollow, and the upper side opening is formed by bending a portion of the upper side towards the interior, and the lower side opening is formed by bending a portion of the lower side towards the interior, and at least the upper side is formed of a non-foamed material.

[0030] According to the present invention, a method for manufacturing a hydroponic cultivation board is provided, the hydroponic cultivation board having a plurality of holes, the manufacturing method comprising: a configuration step of configuring a first molten resin sheet in a first mold and configuring a second molten resin sheet in a second mold; and a welding step of closing the first mold and the second mold and welding the first molten resin sheet and the second molten resin sheet, characterized in that, in the configuration step, a protrusion having a shape that gradually expands towards the first mold is provided on the first mold, the first molten resin sheet is configured on the surface including the protrusion, and the holes are provided at positions overlapping the protrusion of the first molten resin sheet.

[0031] The present invention provides a hydroponic cultivation board that ensures panel strength and promotes plant growth, and a method for manufacturing the hydroponic cultivation board.

[0032] The following describes various embodiments of the present invention. These embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0033] Preferably, the opening on the lower side of the hydroponic cultivation board is inclined in a multi-stage manner with an angle of inclination that gradually decreases towards the lower side relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board.

[0034] Preferably, in the hydroponic cultivation board, the upper side sheet and the lower side sheet are fitted together, and the lower side opening is formed by bending a portion of the lower side sheet inward. Preferably, in the hydroponic cultivation board, the upper side opening is a tapered shape that gradually widens towards the upper side.

[0035] (Second viewpoint)

[0036] According to the present invention, the following invention is provided.

[0037] (1) A panel for hydroponic cultivation, wherein the panel is provided with a hole for inserting a plant, the hole penetrating the panel in the vertical direction, and an annular base surface and an upper side surface are provided inside the hole, the upper side surface extending upward from the outer edge of the base surface, and the base surface and the upper side surface are not parallel.

[0038] (2): The panel described in (1) has a lower side surface provided with the hole. The lower side surface extends downward from the inner edge of the base surface, and the angle between the base surface and the lower side surface is 20 to 90 degrees.

[0039] (3): The panel described in (2) has a lower side surface that is a conical surface that gradually expands in diameter toward the lower side.

[0040] (4): A method for manufacturing a board for hydroponics, comprising a configuration step, a forming step, and a post-processing step. In the configuration step, a first mold and a second mold that can be opened and closed are opened, and a blank is configured between the first mold and the second mold. The first mold has a first rib, and the second mold has a second rib. The first rib and the second rib are configured opposite to each other. The diameter of the outer edge of the front end face of the first rib is larger than the diameter of the outer edge of the front end face of the second rib. In the forming step, with the blank configured between the first mold and the second mold, the first mold and the second mold are closed, so that the first rib and the second rib abut against each other. At the same time, the opposing inner surfaces of the blank are welded together to form a welded part, and the blank is formed into a panel shape to form a shaped body. In the post-processing step, the welded part is removed to form a hole.

[0041] (5): In the manufacturing method described in (4), the removal of the welded part is carried out along the outer edge of the part pressed at the front end face of the second rib.

[0042] (6): In the method described in (4) or (5), at least one of the front end face of the first rib and the front end face of the second rib is provided with an annular surface, and a recess is provided on the inner side of the annular surface.

[0043] (7): (6) The method wherein the annular surface is disposed on both the front end face of the first rib and the front end face of the second rib, and the width of the annular surface of the first rib is greater than the width of the annular surface of the second rib.

[0044] In this invention, an annular base surface and a non-parallel upper side surface are provided within the hole of the panel. When the culture medium is compressed and inserted into the hole, it expands within the hole due to restoring force, thus easily being held by the base surface within the hole. Therefore, it is possible to prevent the culture medium from falling out of the hole.

[0045] (Third viewpoint)

[0046] According to the present invention, the following invention is provided.

[0047] (1): A panel for hydroponic cultivation, the panel having a left side and a right side, the left side having a lower protrusion that protrudes from the lower side than the upper side and an upper protrusion that protrudes from the upper side than the lower side, the right side having a lower protrusion that protrudes from the lower side than the upper side and an upper protrusion that protrudes from the upper side than the lower side, the lower protrusion of the left side and the upper protrusion of the right side being positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction, the upper protrusion of the left side and the lower protrusion of the right side being positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction.

[0048] (2): (1) The panel described above, the left side has a pair of upper protrusions, and on the left side, the lower protrusion is disposed between the pair of upper protrusions, the right side has a pair of lower protrusions, and on the right side, the upper protrusion is disposed between the pair of lower protrusions.

[0049] (3): The panel described in (1) or (2) has a flat portion that is flat across the entire range of the convex portion and the concave portion in the thickness direction of the left side and the right side respectively, and the flat portion of the left side and the flat portion of the right side are arranged at opposite positions in the left-right direction.

[0050] (4): The panel in any one of (1) to (3) is not a point-symmetric shape.

[0051] (5): The panel of any one of (1) to (3) is point-symmetric.

[0052] (6): A hydroponic cultivation board system, comprising a plurality of hydroponic cultivation boards arranged in series, wherein the plurality of hydroponic cultivation boards have adjacent left and right panels, the left and right panels being panels as described in any one of (1) to (5), wherein the upper protrusion of the right side of the left panel overlaps with the lower protrusion of the left side of the right panel, and the lower protrusion of the right side of the left panel overlaps with the upper protrusion of the left side of the right panel.

[0053] In this invention, the hydroponic cultivation board is composed of multiple boards arranged in series such that the upper protrusion of the right side of the left panel overlaps with the lower protrusion of the left side of the right panel, and the lower protrusion of the right side of the left panel overlaps with the upper protrusion of the left side of the right panel. Therefore, relative movement between two adjacent panels in the vertical direction can be suppressed. Thus, when multiple panels arranged in series are moved by pushing other panels with panels located at the ends, the possibility of one panel climbing onto an adjacent panel is prevented.

[0054] (4th viewpoint)

[0055] According to the present invention, a hydroponic cultivation bed is provided, characterized in that it has a generally concave body portion for storing liquid, the interior of the body portion being hollow and having a flow path for fluid to circulate in a portion of the interior.

[0056] The present invention provides a hydroponic cultivation bed that is highly durable and easy to maintain.

[0057] The following describes various embodiments of the present invention. These embodiments can be combined with each other.

[0058] Preferably, the main body is composed of a plurality of connecting units connected in a first direction. Each of the plurality of connecting units has a generally rectangular base plate portion and a side plate portion that rises from the edge of the base plate portion, and at least one side of the first direction is open to the first direction.

[0059] Preferably, each of the plurality of connecting units has a fitting portion on the open side, and the fitting portions of two adjacent connecting units are fitted together.

[0060] Preferably, the flow path includes an air supply path disposed on the raised front end of the side plate portion, which is erected from the edges of the side plate portion on both sides of the edge in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and which supplies air along the first direction. The air supply path has an outlet for blowing air flowing within the air supply path toward the bottom plate portion.

[0061] Preferably, the flow path includes a water delivery path disposed on the opposite side of the side plate portion of the base plate portion and for supplying water, wherein the water delivery path has inlet ports at both ends for introducing water into the water delivery path. Attached Figure Description

[0062] Figure 1 This is a top view of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment of the first aspect of the present invention.

[0063] Figure 2 This is a side view of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment.

[0064] Figure 3 This is a cross-sectional view along the long side of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 (Cross-sectional view of section III-III in the diagram).

[0065] Figure 4 This is a cross-sectional view of the short side of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 (Cross-sectional view of section IV-IV in the image).

[0066] Figure 5 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the hole cross-section of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment.

[0067] Figure 6 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the hole in the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment with the plant inserted.

[0068] Figure 7 middle, Figure 7 A~ Figure 7 B is a cross-sectional view showing the configuration process in the manufacturing process of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment.

[0069] Figure 8 middle, Figure 8 A~ Figure 8 B is a cross-sectional view showing the welding process in the manufacturing process of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the first embodiment.

[0070] Figure 9 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the hole cross-section of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the second embodiment.

[0071] Figure 10 This is an enlarged cross-sectional view of the hole cross-section of the hydroponic cultivation board according to the third embodiment.

[0072] Figure 11 middle, Figure 11 A is a perspective view of the hydroponic cultivation board 310 according to the embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention. Figure 11 B is Figure 11 A magnified view of region B in area A.

[0073] Figure 12 middle, Figure 12 A is after Figure 11 A cross-sectional view of the center of the short side of the hydroponic cultivation board 310 (A). Figure 12 B is Figure 12 A magnified view of region B in area A. Figure 12 C indicates the state of the hydroponic cultivation plate 310 floating on the nutrient solution 309 after the culture medium 304 is inserted into the hole 320. This is in contrast to... Figure 12The corresponding cross-sectional view for B should be explained. Figure 12 B shows the structure of the hydroponic cultivation board 310 in detail. In the other figures, the way the hydroponic cultivation board 310 is illustrated varies. Figure 12 B has been simplified.

[0074] Figure 13 This is a cross-sectional view showing the state after the first and second resin sheets 305a and 305b, which serve as preforms 305, are arranged between the first mold 321 and the second mold 322. As explained, Figures 13-20 For ease of illustration, lines representing parts closer to the rear than the cross-section have been omitted.

[0075] Figure 14 middle, Figure 14 A is from Figure 13 A cross-sectional view after removing the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a. Figure 14 B is to make Figure 14 A cross-sectional view of the state after the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a of A are abutting each other.

[0076] Figure 15 It means from Figure 14 The cross-sectional view of the state after the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b are shaped by the first mold 321 and the second mold 322.

[0077] Figure 16 From Figure 15 The cross-sectional view of the state after the first mold 321 and the second mold 322 are closed.

[0078] Figure 17 middle, Figure 17 A is from Figure 16 A cross-sectional view after cutting out the area near the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a. Figure 17 B indicates from Figure 17 The state of A after removing the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a. Figure 17 C indicates from Figure 17 B is the state after removing the welded part 307 from the outer edge 320h of the pressing part 320g along the front end face 322g of the second rib 322a.

[0079] Figure 18 middle, Figure 18 A~ Figure 18 C respectively with Figure 17 A~ Figure 17 C corresponds to the state after the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a have shifted.

[0080] Figure 19 middle, Figure 19 A~ Figure 19 C respectively with Figure 17 A~ Figure 17 C corresponds to a comparative example where the outer edges 321h and 322h of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are consistent.

[0081] Figure 20 middle, Figure 20 A, Figure 20 B and Figure 20 D and respectively Figure 19 A~ Figure 19 C corresponds to the state where, in a comparative example where the outer edges 321h and 322h of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are consistent, the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are shifted. Figure 20 C is Figure 20 A magnified view of region B in B. Figure 20 E is Figure 20 A magnified view of region E in D.

[0082] Figure 21 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention. Figure 21 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 21 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0083] Figure 22 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 of the first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention. Figure 22 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 22 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0084] Figure 23 middle, Figure 23 A and Figure 23 B are respectively Figure 22 Section AA and section BB in A.

[0085] Figure 24 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the second embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention. Figure 24 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 24 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0086] Figure 25 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 of the second embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention. Figure 25 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 25 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0087] Figure 26This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the third aspect and third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 26 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 26 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0088] Figure 27 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 of the third aspect and third embodiment of the present invention. Figure 27 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 27 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0089] Figure 28 middle, Figure 28 A and Figure 28 B are respectively Figure 27 Section AA and section BB in A.

[0090] Figure 29 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the fourth embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention. Figure 29 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 29 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0091] Figure 30 middle, Figure 30 A is viewed from the lower left. Figure 29 A 3D diagram of a hydroponic cultivation board (410) for model A. Figure 30 B is viewed from the lower right. Figure 29 A 3D diagram of a hydroponic cultivation board 410.

[0092] Figure 31 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 of the third aspect and fourth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 31 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 31 B is a three-dimensional image viewed from the rear side.

[0093] Figure 32 middle, Figure 32 A and Figure 32 B are respectively Figure 31 Section AA and section BB in A.

[0094] Figure 33 middle, Figure 33 A and Figure 33 B is equivalent to the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 in the third viewpoint and the fifth embodiment. Figure 22 The cross-sectional views of sections AA and BB are shown in the figure.

[0095] Figure 34 This refers to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the third aspect and sixth embodiment of the present invention. Figure 34 A is a three-dimensional view taken from the front side. Figure 34 B is Figure 34 A magnified view of region B in area A. Figure 34 C is a three-dimensional view taken from the rear side. Figure 34 D is Figure 34 A magnified view of region D in C.

[0096] Figure 35 middle, Figure 35 A is to combine two... Figure 34 A top view of the hydroponic cultivation boards 410 arranged side by side. Figure 35 B is Figure 35 In the enlarged view of region B in A, although the engaging recess 402f, the base recess 402g, and the engaging wall 402h cannot be identified from above, Figure 35 To facilitate understanding, these structures are illustrated using dotted lines.

[0097] Figure 36 middle, Figure 36 A is with Figure 35 A cross-sectional view of the surface passing through the engaging protrusion 401f, the base recess 402g, and the engaging recess 402f in the same region B. Figure 36 B is from Figure 36 State A, relative to the left panel 411, after the right panel 412 is shifted downwards, should be explained. Figure 36 and Figure 37 For ease of illustration, the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is represented as a solid structure.

[0098] Figure 37 middle, Figure 37 A is from Figure 36 State B is the state after the right panel 412 is brought closer to the left panel 411, guided by the guiding structure 410c. Figure 37 B is from Figure 37 The state of A is relative to the state after the right panel 412 is shifted upwards relative to the left panel 411.

[0099] Figure 38 yes Figure 37 Section AA in B.

[0100] Figure 39 This is a perspective view of the hydroponic cultivation bed according to the embodiment of the fourth aspect of the present invention.

[0101] Figure 40 This is a perspective view showing the state of each connecting unit constituting the hydroponic cultivation bed involved in this embodiment after separation.

[0102] Figure 41 This is a perspective view of the intermediate connecting unit of the hydroponic cultivation bed involved in this embodiment, viewed from above.

[0103] Figure 42 This is a perspective view of the intermediate connecting unit of the hydroponic cultivation bed according to this embodiment, viewed from below.

[0104] Figure 43 This is a cross-sectional view showing the interlocking state of adjacent connecting units in the hydroponic cultivation bed according to this embodiment. Figure 39 (Cross-sectional view of section VV in the diagram).

[0105] Figure 44 This is a perspective view showing the interlocking state of adjacent connecting units in the hydroponic cultivation bed according to this embodiment.

[0106] Figure 45 This is a perspective view showing the state of the hydroponic cultivation bed according to this embodiment after the pipe components are connected to each connecting unit from below. Detailed Implementation

[0107] Next, embodiments of the present invention will be described. The various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other. Furthermore, each feature independently constitutes the present invention.

[0108] (Implementation method of the first viewpoint)

[0109] Reference Figures 1 to 8 The first aspect and first embodiment of the present invention will be described below. For example... Figure 1 As shown, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 of this embodiment is a rectangular panel-shaped component viewed from above, used to float on nutrient solution for hydroponic cultivation. The hydroponic cultivation board 10 has a short side dimension of, for example, 60 cm, a long side dimension of, for example, 90 cm, and a thickness of, for example, 3 cm. In the following description, the short side direction of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 will be considered the front-to-back direction, and the long side direction will be considered the left-to-right direction.

[0110] The hydroponic cultivation board 10 has a plurality of holes 20 arranged at prescribed intervals. These holes 20 are continuous in the vertical direction and open to the upper 10a side and the lower 10b side of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 (see reference). Figure 2 Plants for hydroponics are inserted into the holes 20 from the top 10a side of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. It should be noted that handles 12 are provided at four locations near the front, back, left and right edges of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. The handles 12 are concave and are used as grips when moving the hydroponic cultivation board 10.

[0111] like Figure 2As shown, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is formed by bonding two sheet-like components together. These two sheet-like components are not formed by expanding foam beads (e.g., polystyrene foam), but are formed from a non-foamed material. Specifically, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is formed by bonding and welding an upper side sheet 30 and a lower side sheet 40 made of rigid plastic together. Compared to panels formed of polystyrene foam, this hydroponic cultivation board 10, made of a high-strength material such as rigid plastic, is easier to clean. When the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is used for hydroponic cultivation, the lower side sheet 40 of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is immersed in the nutrient solution N (see reference). Figure 6 They float on the nutrient solution N in the manner described in the diagram.

[0112] like Figure 3 As shown, five holes 20 are evenly spaced along the left and right sides at the center of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 in the front-to-back direction. Furthermore, as... Figure 4 As shown, four holes 20 are evenly spaced along the front-back direction on the left and right edges of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. The cross-section of each hole 20 is roughly V-shaped, and its opening diameter gradually increases towards the underside of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. All holes 20 on the hydroponic cultivation board 10 are made to be of the same shape and size.

[0113] In the hydroponic cultivation board 10, the upper side sheet 30 and the lower side sheet 40 are hollow. That is, the upper side sheet 30 and the lower side sheet 40 are welded together at the annular portion of the outer periphery of the hydroponic cultivation board 10, and the interior is hollow. A portion of each hole 20 is provided in the upper side sheet 30, and the remainder is provided in the lower side sheet 40.

[0114] Next, the shape of each hole 20 will be described in detail. For example... Figure 5 As shown, the hole 20 extends vertically, and is constructed by extending both an upper side opening 32 on the upper side sheet 30 and a lower side opening 42 on the lower side sheet 40 in the vertical direction. Specifically, the upper side opening 32 is formed by bending a portion of the upper side sheet 30 towards the interior of the hollow hydroponic cultivation board 10, and the lower side opening 42 is formed by bending a portion of the lower side sheet 40 towards the interior of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. The upper side opening 32 opens towards the upper surface 10a of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 and is formed as a tapered shape that gradually expands in diameter towards the upper surface 10a.

[0115] The lower side opening 42 opens towards the lower 10b side of the hydroponic cultivation board 10, and is formed in a two-stage inclined cone shape (such as having two stepped inclinations) that gradually widens from the portion communicating with the upper side opening 32 towards the lower 10b side. Specifically, the lower side opening 42 includes a first conical portion 42a connected to the upper side opening 32, and a second conical portion 42b connected to the first conical portion 42a and having a gentler inclination angle than the first conical portion 42a. Therefore, at the location where the first conical portion 42a is provided, the thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 (the width between the first conical portion 42a and the upper 10a) becomes thinner.

[0116] In the lower side opening 42, relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 ( Figure 5 The inclination angle θ1 of the first tapered portion 42a (in the direction indicated by the dashed arrow) is in the range of 20 to 90 degrees, preferably in the range of 40 to 90 degrees. The inclination angle θ2 of the second tapered portion 42b relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is made smaller than the inclination angle θ1 of the first tapered portion 42a, and is in the range of 0 to 30 degrees, preferably in the range of 10 to 20 degrees. In addition, the opening diameter D2 of the lower side opening 42 is made larger than the opening diameter D1 of the upper side opening 32 (for example, the opening diameter D1 is 25 mm and the opening diameter D2 is 47 mm).

[0117] When using the hydroponic cultivation board 10 for hydroponic cultivation, such as Figure 6 As shown, a sponge or similar insert 50, in which a plant P is planted, is embedded in the upper side opening 32 of each hole 20. That is, the insert 50 is supported within the upper side opening 32. The supporting force of the insert 50 in the upper side opening 32 depends on the thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 located at the first conical portion 42a connected to the upper side opening 32. With the insert 50 embedded in the upper side opening 32, a space S is formed around the insert 50, surrounded by the nutrient solution N and the lower side opening 42. This allows air to be supplied to the roots of the plant P from the space S, promoting the growth of the plant P.

[0118] It should be noted that in the hydroponic cultivation board 10, it is preferable to make the upper side sheet 30 white and the lower side sheet 40 black. The white sheet has a high solar reflectivity, and the upper side sheet 30 can effectively reflect sunlight, providing sufficient sunlight to the plant P. Conversely, the black sheet has low solar transmittance, which can inhibit sunlight from passing through the lower side sheet 40 and reaching the nutrient solution N, thereby inhibiting the growth of algae and other organisms in the nutrient solution N.

[0119] Return to Figure 5The relationship between the widths of the upper side opening 32, the first tapered portion 42a, and the second tapered portion 42b in each hole 20 will be explained. In the lower side opening 42, the lateral width (horizontal dimension) of the second tapered portion 42b is W1, and the lateral width (horizontal dimension) of the first tapered portion 42a is W2, satisfying the relationship W1≤W2. In this case, the ratio of the two is 1≤W2 / W1≤4, preferably 1.05≤W2 / W1≤3. If the ratio of the two is greater than 4, the area where the first tapered portion 42a is provided becomes larger, resulting in more thin areas in the hydroponic cultivation board 10, which in turn reduces the strength of the support pin 50 at the upper side opening 32. Therefore, by setting the ratio of the two to 4 or less, the strength of the support pin 50 at the upper side opening 32 can be ensured.

[0120] Furthermore, the relationship between the aforementioned transverse widths W1 and W2, the longitudinal width (vertical dimension) W3 of the upper side opening 32, and the longitudinal width (vertical dimension) W4 of the lower side opening 42 is 0.2 ≤ (W1+W2) / (W3+W4) ≤ 0.9, preferably 0.3 ≤ (W1+W2) / (W3+W4) ≤ 0.6. If the ratio of W1+W2 to W3+W4 is less than 0.2, the space S enclosed by the nutrient solution N and the lower side opening 42 becomes narrower, failing to adequately promote the growth of plant P. Conversely, if the ratio of W1+W2 to W3+W4 is greater than 0.9, the area where the first conical portion 42a is located becomes larger, and the strength of the anchor 50 supported at the upper side opening 32 decreases. By controlling the ratio of W1+W2 and W3+W4 within the aforementioned range, the supporting force of the upper side opening 32 on the anchor 50 can be increased while promoting the growth of plant P.

[0121] Furthermore, for the aforementioned longitudinal widths W3 and W4, the relationship expression 1 ≤ W4 / W3 ≤ 10 is satisfied, preferably 3 ≤ W4 / W3 ≤ 7. If the ratio of the two is less than 3, the space S surrounded by the nutrient solution N and the lower side opening 42 becomes narrower, which cannot adequately promote the growth of plant P. Conversely, if the ratio of the two is greater than 7, the location of the first conical part 42a becomes larger, and the strength of the anchor 50 supported at the upper side opening 32 becomes lower. By controlling the ratio of the two within the above range, it is possible to promote the growth of plant P while increasing the supporting force of the anchor 50 at the upper side opening 32.

[0122] It should be noted that when the above-mentioned horizontal widths W1 and W2, and the above-mentioned vertical widths W3 and W4 satisfy the above-mentioned numerical range, the above-mentioned vertical widths W3 and W4, and the vertical width (vertical dimension) W5 of the second tapered portion 42b satisfy the relationship 0.5≤W5 / (W3+W4)≤0.9, and this relationship is preferably 0.6≤W5 / (W3+W4)≤0.7.

[0123] Next, the manufacturing method of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 will be described. The hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to this embodiment is formed by a resin molding apparatus 60. The resin molding apparatus 60 includes two resin supply devices arranged opposite each other (opposite each other), which form the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a (see reference). Figure 7 The first mold 61 and the second mold 62 are respectively disposed on the outer sides of the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a formed by the resin molding device 60.

[0124] like Figure 7 As shown in Figure A, the first mold 61 and the second mold 62 are arranged opposite to each other. Frames 63 and 64 are respectively arranged around the outer periphery of the first mold 61 and the second mold 62. A vacuum pump (not shown) is provided on the first mold 61 to depressurize the space enclosed by the chamber 61a of the first mold 61. Similarly, a vacuum pump (not shown) is also provided on the second mold 62 to depressurize the space enclosed by the chamber 62a of the second mold 62. During the manufacturing process of the hydroponic cultivation board 10, the upper side sheet 30 is formed in the chamber 61a of the first mold 61, and the lower side sheet 40 is formed in the chamber 62a of the second mold 62.

[0125] Inside the cavity 61a of the first mold 61, a first pin (protrusion) 71 is provided at each position corresponding to each upper side opening 32 in the formed upper side sheet 30. The shape of the pin head is approximately the same as the opening shape of the upper side opening 32, and the pin shaft is inserted into the cavity 61a. That is, the outer side of the pin head of the first pin 71 is tapered and gradually expands towards the cavity 61a side of the first mold 61.

[0126] On the other hand, within the cavity 62a of the second mold 62, a second pin (protrusion) 72 is provided at each position corresponding to each lower side opening 42 in the formed lower side sheet 40. The shape of the pin head is approximately the same as the opening shape of the lower side opening 42, and the pin shaft is inserted into the cavity 62a. That is, the pin head of the second pin 72 is a two-stage inclined cone shape that gradually expands in diameter towards the cavity 62a side of the second mold 62.

[0127] In the manufacturing process of the hydroponic cultivation board 10, firstly, using a resin supply device, the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a are suspended between the first mold 61 and the second mold 62. Then, as... Figure 7 As shown in Figure A, the frame 63 is moved to the first molten resin sheet 30a so that it abuts against the sheet surface of the first molten resin sheet 30a. Similarly, the frame 64 is moved to the second molten resin sheet 40a so that it abuts against the sheet surface of the second molten resin sheet 40a.

[0128] Next, as Figure 7 As shown in B, the mold frame 63 and the first mold 61 are brought closer together, and the pressure is reduced within the space formed by the first molten resin sheet 30a, the cavity 61a, and the mold frame 63. The first molten resin sheet 30a is then placed into the cavity 61a of the first mold 61 and shaped thereon. Similarly, the mold frame 64 and the second mold 62 are brought closer together, and the pressure is reduced within the space formed by the second molten resin sheet 40a, the cavity 62a, and the mold frame 64. The second molten resin sheet 40a is then placed into the cavity 62a of the second mold 62 and shaped thereon (placement process).

[0129] In the configuration process, the upper side opening 32 is shaped using the first pin 71 at the position where it overlaps with the first pin 71 in the first molten resin sheet 30a disposed in the chamber 61a. Furthermore, the lower side opening 42 is shaped using the second pin 72 at the position where it overlaps with the second pin 72 in the second molten resin sheet 40a disposed in the chamber 62a. In this way, the upper side opening 32 can be formed by bending a portion of the first molten resin sheet 30a towards the interior of the shaped hydroponic cultivation board 10, and the lower side opening 42 can be formed by bending a portion of the second molten resin sheet 40a towards the interior of the shaped hydroponic cultivation board 10.

[0130] Then, as Figure 8 As shown in Figure A, the first mold 61, which shapes the first molten resin sheet 30a in chamber 61a, and the second mold 62, which shapes the second molten resin sheet 40a in chamber 62a, are brought close together and the molds are closed until the annular clamping portions 61b and 62b abut against each other. Thus, the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a are welded together along the clamping portions 61b and 62b on their outer peripheries, and the portion clamped between the first pin 71 and the second pin 72 is also welded together (welding process). In other parts, the space between them is hollow. Then, the first mold 61 and the second mold 62 are opened, and the welded first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a are removed.

[0131] like Figure 8As shown in Figure B, the first molten resin sheet 30a, taken from the first mold 61 and the second mold 62, becomes the upper side sheet 30, and the second molten resin sheet 40a becomes the lower side sheet 40. In this state, the upper side opening 32 after the first molten resin sheet 30a is shaped and the lower side opening 42 after the second molten resin sheet 40a is shaped are not connected. A joint J is formed at the boundary between the two, which is formed by welding the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a together. Holes 20 are provided in the hydroponic cultivation board 10 by cutting each joint J to connect each upper side opening 32 and each lower side opening 42. The hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to this embodiment can be manufactured by following the above sequence.

[0132] In the hydroponic cultivation board 10 manufactured as described above, a planter 50 can be inserted into the upper opening 32 of each hole 20 formed by bending a portion of the upper sheet 30 inward. Furthermore, the lower opening 42 of each hole 20 formed by bending a portion of the lower sheet 40 inward can be shaped to gradually widen towards the lower 10b. Therefore, at each hole 20, compared to a shape where the inner surface of the opening widens horizontally, the width between the lower opening 42 and the upper 10a can be increased, thereby ensuring sufficient thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 10.

[0133] Furthermore, in the hydroponic cultivation board 10 of this embodiment, the upper side sheet 30 and the lower side sheet 40 are formed of rigid plastic made of non-foamed material and are hollow inside. This allows for lightweighting while ensuring higher rigidity than materials such as polystyrene foam. As a result, even in the portions where the holes 20 are provided, the strength of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is still sufficiently ensured, thereby maintaining the durability of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 even when the load applied to the holes 20 increases due to the growth of the plant P planted in the anchor body 50.

[0134] Furthermore, in the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to this embodiment, the lower side opening 42 of each hole 20 has a shape that gradually widens towards the lower 10b. Therefore, when the hydroponic cultivation board 10 floats on the nutrient solution N, a spacious space S can be ensured around the plug 50, encompassing the nutrient solution N and the lower side opening 42. This allows sufficient air to be provided to the roots of the plant P, effectively promoting plant P growth. As described above, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to this embodiment can promote plant P growth while ensuring the strength of the board surface.

[0135] Furthermore, in the hydroponic cultivation board 10, the lower side opening 42 of each hole 20 is inclined in multiple stages (multi-step inclination, multi-level inclination, step-like inclination) with the inclination angle gradually decreasing towards the lower side relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. With this structure, not only can the thickness between the upper surface 10a and the first conical portion 42a of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 be ensured at the lower side opening 42, but also a specific structure can be provided to form a shape that gradually expands in diameter towards the lower 10b side.

[0136] Furthermore, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is constructed by bonding an upper side sheet 30 on the upper side 10a and a lower side sheet 40 on the lower side 10b together, with the lower side opening 42 formed by bending a portion of the lower side sheet 40 inward. With this structure, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 formed by bonding two sheets can provide a specific structure that ensures a spacious space S surrounding the nutrient solution N and the lower side opening 42 around the plug 50.

[0137] In the hydroponic cultivation board 10, the lower side opening 42 is a two-stage inclined cone shape. The two stages consist of a first conical portion 42a connected to the upper side opening 32, and a second conical portion 42b connected to the first conical portion 42a. The inclination angle θ1 of the first conical portion 42a relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is 60 degrees. With this structure, the thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 can be ensured in the section where the first conical portion 42a is provided, while also providing a suitable inclination angle for the first conical portion 42a to expand its diameter towards the lower side opening 10b.

[0138] Furthermore, in the hydroponic cultivation board 10, the upper side opening 32 of each hole 20 is tapered in shape, gradually widening towards the upper side 10a of the hydroponic cultivation board 10. With this structure, the opening diameter of each hole 20 increases towards the upper side 10a of the hydroponic cultivation board 10, making it easy to insert the anchor body 50 for planting the plant P into the upper side opening 32.

[0139] Furthermore, the manufacturing method of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to this embodiment is a manufacturing method of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 having multiple holes 20, which includes: a configuration step, in which a first molten resin sheet 30a is configured into a first mold 61 and a second molten resin sheet 40a is configured into a second mold 62; and a welding step, in which the first mold 61 and the second mold 62 are closed and the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a are welded together. In the configuration step, a first pin 71 with a shape that gradually expands in diameter towards the first mold 61 is configured on the first mold 61, and the first molten resin sheet 30a is configured on the surface containing the first pin 71 (inside the cavity 61a), and holes 20 are provided at the overlapping position of the first pin 71 with the first molten resin sheet 30a.

[0140] According to this manufacturing method, a material with superior strength to polystyrene foam (such as rigid plastic) can be used to form the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a using a resin molding apparatus 60. Then, in the configuration step, the formed first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a are shaped along the first mold 61 and the second mold 62. Then, in the configuration step, the position in the first molten resin sheet 30a that overlaps with the first pin 71 is shaped along the outer surface of the pin head of the first pin 71 to form a lower side opening 42 with a gradually expanding diameter, which is used as part of the hole 20 of the manufactured hydroponic cultivation plate 10.

[0141] Then, in the welding process, the outer peripheries of the first molten resin sheet 30a and the second molten resin sheet 40a are welded to the upper side opening 32 and the lower side opening 42, with the former being hollow. Then, the hydroponic cultivation board 10 is manufactured by forming a hole 20 between the upper side opening 32 and the lower side opening 42 after the welding process. Therefore, in the manufacturing method of the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to this embodiment, a hydroponic cultivation board 10 that can ensure the strength of the panel and promote the growth of plant P can be manufactured using a material with excellent strength.

[0142] (Second implementation of the first viewpoint)

[0143] Next, refer to Figure 9 The second embodiment of the present invention will now be described. It should be noted that in the description of the second embodiment, descriptions of structures identical to those in the first embodiment have been omitted and simplified. Furthermore, in... Figure 9 In the second embodiment, each part corresponding to each part in the first embodiment is represented by the symbol shown in the first embodiment with the number 100 added.

[0144] The shape of each hole 120 in the hydroponic cultivation board according to the second embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment. Specifically, as shown in... Figure 9 As shown, the opening diameter D3 of the lower side opening 142 of each hole 120 is larger than the opening diameter D2 of the lower side opening 42 of each hole 20 in the first embodiment (for example, opening diameter D2 is 47 mm and opening diameter D3 is 58 mm). It should be noted that the opening diameter D1 of the upper side opening 132 of each hole 120 is the same as the opening diameter D1 of the upper side opening 32 of each hole 20 in the first embodiment. Furthermore, in the second embodiment, the inclination angle θ3 of the first tapered portion 142a of the lower side opening 142 of each hole 120 relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board is made larger than the inclination angle θ1 of the first tapered portion 42a in the first embodiment (for example, 60 degrees).

[0145] By shaping each hole 120 as described above, the hydroponic cultivation board according to the second embodiment can enlarge the space surrounded by the nutrient solution and the lower side opening 142 compared to the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to the first embodiment. Therefore, the hydroponic cultivation board according to the second embodiment can effectively promote the growth of plant P while ensuring the strength of the panel.

[0146] (Third implementation of the first viewpoint)

[0147] Next, refer to Figure 10 The third embodiment of the present invention will now be described. It should be noted that in the description of the third embodiment, descriptions relating to structures identical to those of the first embodiment have been omitted and simplified. Furthermore, in... Figure 10 In the third embodiment, each part corresponding to each part in the first embodiment is represented by the symbol shown in the first embodiment with the number 200 added.

[0148] The shape of each hole 220 in the hydroponic cultivation board according to the third embodiment differs from that in the first embodiment. Specifically, as shown in... Figure 10 As shown, the opening diameter D4 of the upper side opening 232 of each hole 220 is made larger than the opening diameter D1 of the upper side opening 32 of each hole 20 in the first embodiment (for example, opening diameter D1 is 25 mm and opening diameter D4 is 43 mm). Furthermore, the opening diameter D5 of the lower side opening 242 of each hole 220 is made larger than the opening diameter D2 of the lower side opening 42 of each hole 20 in the first embodiment (for example, opening diameter D2 is 47 mm and opening diameter D5 is 63 mm).

[0149] By shaping each hole 220 as described above, the hydroponic cultivation board according to the third embodiment allows for the insertion of a larger plug into the upper side opening 232 compared to the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to the first embodiment, thereby accommodating different plants. Furthermore, compared to the hydroponic cultivation board 10 according to the first embodiment, the hydroponic cultivation board according to the third embodiment can expand the space surrounded by the nutrient solution and the lower side opening 242. Therefore, the hydroponic cultivation board according to the third embodiment can ensure the strength of the panel while further effectively promoting the growth of various plant P.

[0150] While the embodiments of the first aspect of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit. For example, the size, arrangement, and shape of the holes provided in the hydroponic cultivation board can be appropriately modified. For example, although the structure in which the lower opening gradually expands in a conical shape towards the lower side of the hydroponic cultivation board is exemplified in the above embodiments, the lower opening may also be configured as a structure that gradually expands in an arc shape towards the lower side of the hydroponic cultivation board.

[0151] (Implementation method of the second viewpoint)

[0152] Next, embodiments relating to the second aspect of the present invention will be described. The various features shown in the embodiments below can be combined with each other. Furthermore, each feature independently constitutes the present invention.

[0153] 1.Plate for hydroponic cultivation 310

[0154] Figures 11-12 The hydroponic cultivation board 310 of one embodiment of the second aspect of the present invention shown is as follows: Figure 12 The hydroponic cultivation board shown in C is designed to float on the nutrient solution 309 for hydroponic cultivation. The hydroponic cultivation board 310 is preferably made of a hollow resin molded body.

[0155] The hydroponic cultivation board 310 is roughly rectangular in shape, with a short side dimension of, for example, 20–60 cm, a long side dimension of, for example, 50–100 cm, and a thickness of, for example, 20–40 mm. Specific dimensions of the short side include, for example, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, and 60 cm, or any two values ​​listed here. Specific dimensions of the long side include, for example, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, and 100 cm, or any two values ​​listed here. Specific thicknesses of the hydroponic cultivation board 310 include, for example, 20, 25, 30, 35, and 40 mm, or any two values ​​listed here.

[0156] Holes 320 for inserting a growing material 304 are provided on the hydroponic cultivation board 310, extending vertically through the board. The growing material 304 is preferably configured such that a plant P is planted in a peg 350, allowing the growing material 304 to be easily supported in the holes 320. The peg 350 is preferably made of a sponge or similar material that is elastically deformable and absorbent. Due to the elasticity of the peg 350, it can be pressed against the inner surface of the hole 320, thereby supporting the growing material 304 within the hole 320.

[0157] The hydroponic cultivation plate 310 has multiple holes 320, preferably arranged in a regular pattern. The interval between adjacent holes 320 is, for example, 50 mm or more. This interval is, for example, 50 to 150 mm, specifically 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120, 130, 140, 150 mm, or any two values ​​or more of the values ​​listed here.

[0158] The opening diameter D1 on the upper 310a side of hole 320 is, for example, 20-40 mm, and the opening diameter D2 on the lower 310b side is, for example, 30-70 mm. In this specification, "opening diameter" and "diameter" refer to the diameter of the equivalent circle.

[0159] D1 can be, for example, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 mm, or any two values ​​listed here. D2 can be, for example, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, or 70 mm, or any two values ​​listed here. D2 / D1 can be, for example, 1.1 to 3.0, specifically 1.1, 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5, 1.6, 1.7, 1.8, 1.9, 2.0, 2.5, or 3.0, or any two values ​​listed here.

[0160] An annular base surface 320a and an upper side surface 320i extending upwards from the outer edge 320f of the base surface 320a to the upper side surface 310a are provided within the hole 320. The base surface 320a is configured to protrude from the lower edge of the upper side surface 320i toward the center of the hole 320. Therefore, when the cork 350 is inserted into the hole 320 in a compressed state, the cork 350 expands within the hole due to restoring force, thus being easily supported by the base surface 320a within the hole 320, thereby preventing the cork 350 from falling out of the hole 320. It should be noted that, instead of compressing the cork 350, a portion of the plant P can also be compressed before being inserted into the hole 320. The following explanation will continue with the case where the cork 350 is compressed before being inserted into the hole 320 as an example.

[0161] The base surface 320a is preferably flat, but it can also be curved. While the base surface 320a is preferably parallel to the upper surface 310a of the hydroponic cultivation board 310, it may not be parallel. The angle between the base surface 320a and the upper surface 310a is, for example, -30 to 30 degrees, specifically -30, -25, -20, -15, -10, -5, 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, and 30 degrees, or any two values ​​listed here. It should be noted that the angle at which the inner edge 320b of the base surface 320a is closer to the upper surface 310a than the outer edge 320f is considered a positive angle (positive value).

[0162] Preferably, the upper side surface 320i is a conical surface that gradually expands in diameter towards the upper surface 310a. The angle of inclination γ of the upper side surface 320i relative to the normal of the upper surface 310a is, for example, 0 to 30 degrees, preferably 5 to 20 degrees. Specifically, the angle of inclination γ is, for example, 0, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, or 30 degrees, or it can be within any two values ​​exemplified herein. The base surface 320a is not parallel to the upper side surface 320i, and the angle θ between the base surface 320a and the upper side surface 320i is, for example, 90 to 175 degrees, preferably 95 to 135 degrees. The angle θ can be 90, 95, 100, 105, 110, 115, 120, 125, 130, 135, 140, 145, 150, 155, 160, 165, 170, or 175 degrees, or it can be within the range of any two values ​​listed here.

[0163] The opening diameter of the hole 320 at the inner edge 320b of the base surface 320a is the smallest. The opening diameter D3 at the inner edge 320b is, for example, 15–35 mm, specifically 15, 20, 25, 30, or 35 mm, or any two values ​​listed herein. The diameter D4 of the outer edge 320f of the base surface 320a is, for example, 15.5–40 mm, specifically 15.5, 20, 25, 30, 35, or 40 mm, or any two values ​​listed herein. The width of the base surface 320a is, for example, 0.5–5 mm, preferably 1–3 mm. This width is specifically, for example, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, or 5.0 mm, or any two values ​​listed herein. D1 / D3 is, for example, 1.10 to 1.50, specifically 1.10, 1.15, 1.20, 1.25, 1.30, 1.35, 1.40, 1.45, or 1.50, or any two values ​​listed here. The distance from 310a to the base surface 320a is, for example, 3 to 20 mm, specifically 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 15, or 20 mm, or any two values ​​listed here.

[0164] Preferably, a lower side surface 320c extending downward from the inner edge 320b of the base surface 320a to the lower side 310b is provided in the hole 320. The angle α between the base surface 320a and the lower side surface 320c is preferably 20 to 90 degrees, more preferably 35 to 75 degrees. Specifically, the angle α is, for example, 20, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, or 90 degrees, or it can be within any two values ​​exemplified herein. In this case, the angle α is a right angle or an acute angle, so the protrusion 320d formed by the base surface 320a and the lower side surface 320c can easily sink into the plug 350, thereby further preventing the plug 350 from falling out of the hole 320.

[0165] Preferably, the lower side surface 320c is a conical surface that gradually expands in diameter towards the lower surface 310b. Furthermore, it is preferable to provide a conical surface 320e closer to the lower surface 310b than the lower side surface 320c, with a smaller angle of inclination relative to the normal of the lower surface 310b compared to the lower side surface 320c. This results in a larger volume of the hole 320 closer to the lower surface 310b than the inner edge 320b, thereby facilitating the supply of nutrient solution and air to the plug 350. Let the angles of inclination relative to the normal of the lower side surface 320c and the conical surface 320e be β1 and β2, respectively, where β1-β2 are, for example, 15 to 45 degrees, specifically 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, and 45 degrees, or any two values ​​exemplified herein. β1 is, for example, 30 to 60 degrees, preferably 40 to 50 degrees. β2 is, for example, 5 to 25 degrees, preferably 10 to 20 degrees.

[0166] 2. Manufacturing method of hydroponic cultivation board 310

[0167] The manufacturing method of the hydroponic cultivation board 310 according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a configuration step, a forming step, and a post-processing step. The steps will now be described.

[0168] 2-1. Configuration Process

[0169] In the configuration process, such as Figure 13 As shown, the first mold 321 and the second mold 322, which can be opened and closed respectively, are opened, and then the preform 305 is placed between the first mold 321 and the second mold 322.

[0170] The first mold 321 has a first rib 321a, and the second mold 322 has a second rib 322a. The first rib 321a has a shape corresponding to the shape of the portion of the inner edge 320b of the inner surface of the hole 320 that is closer to the upper 310a, and the second rib 322a has a shape corresponding to the shape of the portion of the inner edge 320b of the inner surface of the hole 320 that is closer to the lower 310b. Therefore, a recess with a shape corresponding to the inner surface of the hole 320 can be formed by the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a. The first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are arranged opposite to each other.

[0171] In this embodiment, such as Figure 14As shown, the diameter of the outer edge 321h of the front end face 321g of the first rib 321a is larger than the diameter of the outer edge 322h of the front end face 322g of the second rib 322a. By constructing the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a in this way, even if the center positions of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are offset, the welded portion 307 can still be easily removed. Its effect will be further explained in detail in "2-4. Comparison with a Comparative Example". The front end faces 321g and 322g are preferably flat surfaces, but can also be curved surfaces. The front end faces 321g and 322g are preferably aligned with the opening and closing directions of the first mold 321 and the second mold 322. Figure 13 It can be perpendicular to the left and right directions, but it can also be non-perpendicular.

[0172] Preferably, the first rib 321a is detachably fixed to the first base 321b. The first rib 321a can be fixed by inserting the first mounting protrusion 321c into the first mounting hole 321e of the first base 321b. Since the first rib 321a is detachably fixed to the first base 321b, the number of first ribs 321a provided on the first mold 321 is variable. Therefore, the number of holes 320 can be changed by changing the number of first ribs 321a according to the specifications of the hydroponic cultivation board 310. In this description, the second mold 322 is the same (simply read "first" as "second" and the symbol "321" as "322").

[0173] The first rib 321a and the second rib 322a can also be integrally formed with the first base 321b and the second base 322b and cannot be disassembled. However, as shown in this embodiment, when the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are not integral with the first base 321b and the second base 322b, the center position of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a is prone to shift. Therefore, when the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are not integral with the first base 321b and the second base 322b and can be disassembled, the technical significance of the present invention is particularly significant.

[0174] The preform 305 can be formed by extruding molten resin from an extruder (not shown). The preform 305 can be either cylindrical or sheet-shaped. When the preform 305 is sheet-shaped, it is, for example, composed of a pair of first resin sheets 305a and second resin sheets 305b. In this case, as... Figure 13 As shown, a first resin sheet 305a and a second resin sheet 305b are disposed between the first mold 321 and the second mold 322.

[0175] The resin constituting the preform 305 is preferably a thermoplastic resin such as a polyolefin. Examples of polyolefins include low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymers and their mixtures.

[0176] 2-2. Forming process

[0177] In the forming process, such as Figures 15-16 As shown, with the preform 305 positioned between the first mold 321 and the second mold 322, the first mold 321 and the second mold 322 are closed, causing the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a to abut against each other. The opposing inner surfaces of the preform 305 are welded together to form a welded part 307, and simultaneously the preform 305 is shaped into a panel shape, forming a molded body 308. Forming methods include blow molding, vacuum forming, and combinations thereof.

[0178] When the preform 305 is composed of a first resin sheet 305a and a second resin sheet 305b, firstly, as Figure 15 As shown, the first mold 321 vacuum-draws the first resin sheet 305a to form a shape corresponding to the shaping surface 321f of the first mold 321, and the second mold 322 vacuum-draws the second resin sheet 305b to form a shape corresponding to the shaping surface 322f of the second mold 322. Next, as... Figure 16 As shown, the first mold 321 and the second mold 322 are closed, causing the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a to abut against each other, and the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b to weld together. In this way, while forming the welded part 307, the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b will be formed into a panel shape, thereby forming the molded body 308.

[0179] 2-3. Post-processing steps

[0180] In post-processing steps, such as Figure 17 As shown, the weld portion 307 is removed from the molded body 308 to form the hole 320. The removal of the weld portion 307 can be performed inside the first mold 321 and the second mold 322, or it can be performed after opening the first mold 321 and the second mold 322 and taking out the molded body 308.

[0181] Removal of weld 307 as follows Figure 17 B~ Figure 17 As shown in C, the removal can be performed along the outer edge 320h of the portion 320g that is pressed back against the front end face 322g of the second rib 322a. This forms a hole 320 with a shape corresponding to the outer edge 322h of the front end face 322g. The weld portion 307 can be removed by cutting off the weld portion 307 using a tool or the like. The portion 320g is a thin-walled portion formed by flattening the blank 305 with the front end faces 321g and 322g, so the weld portion 307 can be easily removed by cutting off the weld portion 307 along the portion 320g.

[0182] In the post-processing stage, various post-processing steps, such as removing burrs 305c attached to the molded body 308, can yield the following results: Figure 17 C and Figures 11-12 The desired hydroponic cultivation board 310 is shown.

[0183] In the method of this embodiment, when shaping the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b, the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a abut against the initial first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b, and subsequently, the other surfaces of the shaping surfaces 321f and 322f abut against the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b. As a result, the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b do not extend much or at all near the abutting surfaces 321g and 322g of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a, while other parts are shaped due to extension. This makes it easy for the thickness of the sidewall of the hole 320 to increase, especially near the abutting surfaces of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a (near the inner edge 320b). Furthermore, near the inner edge 320b, due to the resin squeezed out when the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a come into contact, a protruding resin portion 320l is easily formed that protrudes into the hollow part of the hydroponic cultivation board 310. Figure 12 As shown in B), from this viewpoint, the thickness near the inner edge 320b can also easily increase. With this structure, while the strength near the inner edge 320b increases, the welding strength of the first resin sheet 305a and the second resin sheet 305b also increases.

[0184] 2-4. Comparison with comparative examples

[0185] In the comparative example of the present invention, such as Figure 19 As shown in Figure A, the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are on the same straight line, and the outer edges 321h and 322h are aligned. Then, in the post-processing steps, as... Figure 19 B~ Figure 19 As shown in C, the weld 307 is removed along the outer edge 320h.

[0186] If the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are on the same straight line, this structure will not cause problems. However, in reality, if... Figure 20 As shown in Figure A, the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a sometimes shift. When the center positions C1 and C2 shift, the outer edges 321h and 322h also shift, as shown in Figure A. Figure 20 B~ Figure 20As shown in C, a portion of the outer edge 320h will form a non-thin-walled portion 320j of the preform 305 that does not thin at the front end faces 321g and 322g. Subsequently, as... Figure 20 D~ Figure 20 As shown in E, when removing the welded portion 307 along the outer edge 320h, it is necessary to cut the non-thin-walled portion 320j. Therefore, the shape of the hole 320 may be different from the expected shape. In order to finish the cut surface 320k of the inner surface of the hole 320 to make it smooth enough, a new problem arises that takes more time than usual.

[0187] In this embodiment, the problem can be solved by setting the diameter of the outer edge 321h of the front end face 321g of the first rib 321a to be larger than the diameter of the outer edge 322h of the front end face 322g of the second rib. In this structure, as... Figure 18 As shown, when the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are offset, the outer edge 322h can be prevented from protruding outward from the outer edge 321h. Therefore, even if the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a are offset, the outer edge 320h becomes a thin-walled part as a whole, so the welded part 307 can be easily removed along the outer edge 320h.

[0188] It should be noted that when the offset of the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a is greater than the width between the outer edges 321h and 322h, the outer edge 322h may sometimes protrude from the outer edge 321h. Therefore, it is preferable to make the width between the outer edges 321h and 322h greater than the maximum value expected when the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a deviate. For example, when the maximum deviation of the center positions C1 and C2 of the first rib 321a and the second rib 322a is 1 mm, the width between the outer edges 321h and 322h can be set to 2 mm. The width between the outer edges 321h and 322h corresponds to the width of the base surface 320a, and the width between the outer edges 321h and 322h is, for example, 0.5 to 5 mm, preferably 1 to 3 mm. The width can be, for example, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, or 5.0 mm, or it can be within the range of any two values ​​listed here.

[0189] like Figure 14As shown, preferably, annular surfaces 321i and 322i are provided on at least one of the front end surface 321g of the first rib 321a and the front end surface 322g of the second rib 322a. In this case, the recesses 321j and 322j provided on the inner side of the annular surfaces 321i and 322i become resin storage portions 323, which can accommodate resin extruded from the portion abutting the front end surfaces 321g and 322g.

[0190] The annular surfaces 321i and 322i are preferably disposed on both the front end surface 321g of the first rib 321a and the front end surface 322g of the second rib 322a. The width of the annular surface 321i is preferably larger than the width of the annular surface 322i. In this case, while the diameter of the outer edge 321h of the front end surface 321g of the first rib 321a is larger than the diameter of the outer edge 322h of the front end surface 322g of the second rib 322a, it is also easy to make the resin accumulation portion 323 larger.

[0191] (Implementation method of the third viewpoint)

[0192] Next, embodiments of the third aspect of the present invention will be described. The various features shown in the following embodiments can be combined with each other. Furthermore, each feature independently constitutes the present invention.

[0193] 1. First Implementation Method

[0194] use Figures 21-23 The first embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention will be described below. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 according to this embodiment is used for hydroponic cultivation by floating on a nutrient solution. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 is generally rectangular in shape, with a short side dimension of, for example, 20-60 cm, a long side dimension of, for example, 50-100 cm, and a thickness of, for example, 2-4 cm. The short side dimension is specifically, for example, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50, 55, or 60 cm, or any two values ​​listed herein. The long side dimension is specifically, for example, 50, 55, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, 90, 95, or 100 cm, or any two values ​​listed herein. The thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is specifically, for example, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, 3.5, or 4.0 cm, or it can be within any two values ​​listed here.

[0195] In the following text, for ease of explanation, according to Figure 21The front, rear, left, and right directions of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 are defined as shown in direction A. While this definition uses the shorter side of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 as the left and right direction, it is also possible to define front, rear, left, and right using the side direction as the left and right direction. Furthermore, although in the above definition, front, rear, left, and right are defined from... Figure 21 The angle of view of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 from the near end of the observer's viewpoint in section A is defined, but it can also define front, back, left, and right as from... Figure 21 The method of remote observation of hydroponic cultivation using board 410. In this case... Figure 21 In this context, "front," "back," "left," and "right" are replaced with "back," "front," "right," and "left," respectively. Furthermore, the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is considered to move in the left-right direction during hydroponics; it can move from left to right or from right to left. Regardless of the definition, the front-back direction is perpendicular to the left-right direction.

[0196] Multiple holes 420 are regularly arranged at prescribed intervals on a hydroponic cultivation board 410. These holes 420 are vertically connected and open to the upper 410a side and the lower 410b side of the hydroponic cultivation board 410. Plants to be hydroponically cultivated are inserted into the holes 420 from the upper 410a side of the hydroponic cultivation board 410.

[0197] The hydroponic cultivation board 410 has a left side 401 and a right side 402.

[0198] The left side 401 has a lower protrusion 401a that protrudes more than the upper side of the left side 401, and an upper protrusion 401b that protrudes more than the lower side of the left side 401. The right side 402 has a lower protrusion 402a that protrudes more than the upper side of the right side 402, and an upper protrusion 402b that protrudes more than the lower side of the right side 402.

[0199] The lower protrusion 401a of the left side surface 401 and the upper protrusion 402b of the right side surface 402 are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction. Furthermore, the upper protrusion 401b of the left side surface 401 and the lower protrusion 402a of the right side surface 402 are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction.

[0200] like Figure 22As shown, the hydroponic cultivation board 410 can be used to form a hydroponic cultivation board system 413 by arranging multiple hydroponic cultivation boards 410 in series along the left-right direction. Since the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is not point-symmetric, when multiple hydroponic cultivation boards 410 are arranged in series to form the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, directional errors of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 can be suppressed. The number of hydroponic cultivation boards 410 arranged in series along the left-right direction is, for example, 5 or more, preferably 5 to 200. The specific number is, for example, 5, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 150, 200, or it can be within the range of any two values ​​exemplified here.

[0201] In the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, the left side of two adjacent hydroponic cultivation boards 410 is designated as the left panel 411, and the right side as the right panel 412. Then, as follows... Figure 23 As shown in Figure A, the upper protrusion 402b of the right side surface 402 of the left panel 411 overlaps with the upper side of the lower protrusion 401a of the left side surface 401 of the right panel 412, as shown in Figure A. Figure 23 As shown in Figure B, the lower protrusion 402a of the right side surface 402 of the left panel 411 overlaps with the lower side of the upper protrusion 401b of the left side surface 401 of the right panel 412.

[0202] That is, the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 are configured such that the right side surface 402 of the left panel 411 and the left side surface 401 of the right panel 412 overlap each other at the overlapping portion 403, wherein, at the first overlapping portion 403a where the upper protrusion 402b and the lower protrusion 401a overlap, the left panel 411 is on the upper side (e.g. Figure 23 As shown in Figure A), at the second overlapping portion 403b where the lower protrusion 402a overlaps with the upper protrusion 401b, the left panel 411 is on the lower side (as shown in Figure A). Figure 23 (As shown in B). This can suppress relative movement between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 in the vertical direction. It should be noted that the arrangement of the first overlapping portion 403a and the second overlapping portion 403b can also be appropriately replaced depending on the situation. For example, it is also possible to... Figure 22 At the position of section AA of A, a second overlapping portion 403b is provided, where the lower protrusion 402a and the upper protrusion 401b overlap. Figure 22 The position of section BB of A is provided with a first overlapping part 403a where the upper protrusion 402b and the lower protrusion 401a overlap.

[0203] Here, although Figure 22Of the three panels in A, the two on the left are designated as left panel 411 and right panel 412. However, any two adjacent panels from the plurality of hydroponic cultivation boards 410 constituting the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 can also be designated as left panel 411 and right panel 412. This also effectively prevents any two hydroponic cultivation boards 410 from moving vertically. Thus, when the hydroponic cultivation board 410 located at the end pushes other hydroponic cultivation boards 410 to move the plurality of hydroponic cultivation boards 410 arranged in series, it is possible to prevent one hydroponic cultivation board 410 from climbing onto (riding over) an adjacent hydroponic cultivation board 410. Although the plurality of hydroponic cultivation boards 410 constituting the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 are preferably of the same shape, they may not be of the same shape as long as they are shapes that can suppress relative vertical movement through the above-described effect.

[0204] The lengths OL1 and OL2 of the overlapping portions 403a and 403b in the left and right directions are, for example, 5 to 50 mm, preferably 10 to 40 mm (18.2 mm in this embodiment). If the length is too short, it is easy to fail to adequately suppress the relative movement of the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 in the vertical direction. Furthermore, if the length is too long, the left and right dimensions of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 alone will become too large. The length is specifically, for example, 5, 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45, 50 mm, or any two values ​​listed here. Let the thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 be T. OL1 / T and OL2 / T are, for example, 0.1 to 3, preferably 0.2 to 2, specifically, for example, 0.1, 0.2, 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5, 3.0, or any two values ​​listed here.

[0205] The left side 401 has a pair of upper protrusions 401b, and on the left side 401, a lower protrusion 401a is disposed between the pair of upper protrusions 401b in the front-back direction. The right side 402 has a pair of lower protrusions 402a, and on the right side 402, an upper protrusion 402b is disposed between the pair of lower protrusions 402a in the front-back direction. With this structure, in the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, the first overlapping portion 403a is clamped by a pair of second overlapping portions 403b, thereby suppressing relative movement between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 in the front-back direction.

[0206] like Figure 21As shown, the left side surface 401 has a concave portion 401ca and a convex portion 401cb arranged side-by-side in the front-rear direction. Preferably, the concave portion 401ca is held between a pair of convex portions 401cb in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the portion of the left side surface 401 adjacent to the concave portion 401c in the thickness direction has a flat portion 401d that spans the range of the concave portion 401ca and the convex portion 401cb. The right side surface 402 has a concave portion 402ca and a convex portion 402cb arranged side-by-side in the front-rear direction. Preferably, the convex portion 402cb is held between a pair of concave portions 401ca in the front-rear direction. Furthermore, the portion of the right side surface 402 adjacent to the concave portion 402c in the thickness direction has a flat portion 402d that spans the range of the concave portion 402ca and the convex portion 402cb. The flat portions 401d and 402d are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction.

[0207] like Figure 22 As shown in Figure A, in the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, the protrusion 402cb of the right side surface 402 of the left panel 411 is disposed within the recess 401ca of the left side surface 401 of the right panel 412. Furthermore, as... Figure 22 As shown in Figure B, the flat portion 401d abuts against the flat portion 402d, allowing the pressing pressure to be effectively transmitted between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412. The ratio of the thickness of each of the concave and convex portions 401c, 402c and the flat portions 401d, 402d to the thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is preferably 0.3 to 0.7. The ratio of the thickness of each of the concave and convex portions 401c, 402c and the flat portions 401d, 402d to the thickness of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is, for example, 0.3 to 0.7, specifically 0.3, 0.4, 0.5, 0.6, 0.7, or any two values ​​listed here.

[0208] It should be noted that, preferably, even if the flat portion 401d abuts against the flat portion 402d, the front end 402cb3 of the convex portion 402cb and the bottom surface 401ca3 of the concave portion 401ca do not abut against each other (e.g., Figure 23 As shown in Figure A), the front end 401cb3 of the convex portion 401cb does not abut against the bottom surface 402ca3 of the concave portion 402ca (as shown in Figure A). Figure 23 (As shown in B). That is, preferably, a gap is provided between the front end 402cb3 and the bottom surface 401ca3, and a gap is also provided between the front end 401cb3 and the bottom surface 402ca3. In this case, the pressing pressure between the hydroponic cultivation plates 410 is transmitted only at the flat portion 401d and the flat portion 402d, thereby suppressing the transmission of pressing pressure in undesirable locations.

[0209] like Figure 21As shown, the recess 401ca is recessed into the flat portion 401d, and the lower part of the recess 401ca becomes the lower protrusion 401a. The convex portion 401cb protrudes from the flat portion 401d, and the convex portion 401cb becomes the upper protrusion 401b. The recess 402ca is recessed into the flat portion 402d, and the lower part of the recess 402ca becomes the lower protrusion 402a. The convex portion 402cb protrudes from the flat portion 402d, and the convex portion 402cb becomes the upper protrusion 402b. The side 402cb1 of the convex portion 402cb slopes towards the front end in a manner that the width of the convex portion 402cb tapers. The side 401ca1 of the recess 401ca slopes towards the bottom (bottom in the left-right direction) in a manner that the width of the recess 401ca tapers. With this structure, in Figure 22 In the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 shown, the protrusion 402cb of the right side surface 402 of the left panel 411 can easily enter the recess 401ca of the left side surface 401 of the right panel 412.

[0210] like Figure 21 and Figure 23 As shown, the lower surfaces 401b2 and 402b2 of the upper protrusions 401b and 402b are inclined toward the upper surface 410a towards the front end of the upper protrusions 401b and 402b. With this structure, as... Figure 23 As shown in Figure A, in the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, after the upper protrusion 402b of the right side surface 402 of the left panel 411 collides with the flat portion 401d of the left side surface 401 of the right panel 412, the upper protrusion 402b is guided upward and easily climbs (rides) onto the lower protrusion 401a. The upper protrusion 401b has the same effect. It should be noted that in this embodiment, the upper surfaces 401a2 and 402a2 of the lower protrusions 401a and 402a can also be horizontal, inclined towards the front end of the lower protrusions 401a and 402a and the lower surface 410b. In this case, water accumulation on the upper surfaces 401a2 and 402a2 can be suppressed. Furthermore, the inclination angle of the upper surfaces 401a2 and 402a2 is preferably less than or equal to the inclination angle of the lower surfaces 401b2 and 402b2.

[0211] The hydroponic cultivation board 410 is preferably a hollow molded body made of resin. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 can be manufactured by blow molding or vacuum forming. The resin used to manufacture the hydroponic cultivation board 410 is preferably a thermoplastic resin such as a polyolefin, including low-density polyethylene, linear low-density polyethylene, high-density polyethylene, polypropylene, ethylene-propylene copolymers, and mixtures thereof. Since the hydroponic cultivation board 410 does not have an undercut shape, it is easy to manufacture using a segmented molding method.

[0212] 2. Second Implementation Method

[0213] like Figures 24-25 As shown, a second embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention will be described. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment is similar to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the first embodiment, and the matters described in the first embodiment also apply to this embodiment without departing from its spirit. Hereinafter, the main differences will be described.

[0214] like Figure 24 As shown, in the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment, the left side 401 has two lower protrusions 401a and two upper protrusions 401b, which are alternately arranged. The right side 402 has two lower protrusions 402a and two upper protrusions 402b, which are alternately arranged. Furthermore, the lower protrusions 401a and upper protrusions 402b are opposite to each other in the left-right direction, and the upper protrusions 401b and lower protrusions 402a are opposite to each other in the left-right direction. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment has a point-symmetric shape. Therefore, as Figure 25 As shown, when multiple hydroponic cultivation boards 410 are arranged in series to form a hydroponic cultivation board system 413, there is an advantage that the orientation of the hydroponic cultivation boards 410 does not need to be considered.

[0215] 3. Third Implementation Method

[0216] use Figures 26-28 The third embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention will now be described. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment is similar to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the first embodiment, and the matters described in the first embodiment also apply to this embodiment without departing from its spirit. Hereinafter, the main differences will be described.

[0217] In this embodiment, the hydroponic cultivation board 410 does not have flat portions 401d and 402d, and the lengths OL1 and OL2 of the overlapping portions 403a and 403b in the left and right directions are longer than those in the first embodiment (36.5 mm in this embodiment). This makes it difficult to disengage the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 in the vertical direction. In addition, the front ends of the lower protrusion 401a and the upper protrusion 401b are almost on the same plane, and the front ends of the lower protrusion 402a and the upper protrusion 402b are also almost on the same plane.

[0218] In this embodiment, such as Figure 26 As shown, a stepped portion 401ca2 is provided on the side surface 401ca1 of the recess 401ca on the lower protrusion 401a, and a stepped portion 402cb2 is also provided on the side surface 402cb1 of the convex portion 402cb on the upper protrusion 402b. The stepped portions 401ca2 and 402cb2 are planes perpendicular to the left-right direction, therefore, in such... Figure 27In the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 shown, the pressing pressure can be effectively transmitted between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 because the stage parts 401ca2 and 402cb2 abut together.

[0219] It should be noted that, when the preferred stage portions 401ca2 and 402cb2 abut, the front end 402b6 of the upper protrusion 402b does not abut against the bottom surface 401ca3 of the recess 401ca (e.g., Figure 28 As shown in Figure A), the front end 401b6 of the upper protrusion 401b does not abut against the bottom surface 402ca3 of the recess 402ca (as shown in Figure A). Figure 28 (As shown in B). That is, preferably, a gap is provided between the front end 402b6 and the bottom surface 401ca3, and a gap is also provided between the front end 401b6 and the bottom surface 402ca3. In this case, the pressing pressure between the hydroponic cultivation plates 410 is transmitted only through the stage portions 401ca2 and 402cb2, thereby suppressing the transmission of pressing pressure in undesirable locations.

[0220] 4. Fourth Implementation Method

[0221] use Figures 29-32 The fourth embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention will now be described. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment is similar to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the first and third embodiments, and the matters described in the first and third embodiments also apply to this embodiment without departing from their spirit. Hereinafter, the main differences will be described.

[0222] In this embodiment, the lengths of the overlapping portions 403a and 403b of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 in the left-right direction are shorter than those in the first to third embodiments (11.2 mm in this embodiment). Therefore, the individual left-right dimensions of the hydroponic cultivation board 410 are small, thereby reducing the storage space required for the hydroponic cultivation board 410.

[0223] Furthermore, inclined surfaces 401a1, 402a1, 401b1, and 402b1 are provided on the lower protrusions 401a and 402a and the upper protrusions 401b and 402b, respectively. Figures 31-32 In the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 shown, Figure 32 The inclined surfaces 401a1 and 402b1 shown in Figure A abut each other. Figure 32The inclined surfaces 402a1 and 401b1 shown in Figure B abut each other, which allows the pressing force to be effectively transmitted between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412. The inclined surfaces 401a1, 402a1, 401b1, and 402b1 are flat surfaces, preferably arranged to span more than 60% of the thickness direction of the hydroponic cultivation board 410. This ratio is, for example, 60% to 100%, specifically 60%, 65%, 70%, 75%, 80%, 85%, 90%, 95%, and 100%, or it can be within the range of any two values ​​exemplified here.

[0224] In addition, such as Figure 30 As shown in Figure A, on the left side 401, the parting line PL between the lower protrusion 401a and the upper protrusion 401b extends in an inclined direction. As a result, the width of the front edge 401a5 of the lower protrusion 401a is narrower than the width of the root edge 401a4. That is, the lower protrusion 401a tapers at the front end (is tapered). Furthermore, as... Figure 30 As shown in Figure B, on the right side 402, the parting line PL between the lower protrusion 402a and the upper protrusion 402b extends in an inclined direction. As a result, the width of the front edge 402b5 of the upper protrusion 402b is narrower than the width of the root edge 402b4. That is, the upper protrusion 402b is tapered (conical) at the front end. With this structure, in the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, the front edge 401a5 easily enters between a pair of lower protrusions 402a, and the front edge 402b5 easily enters between a pair of upper protrusions 401b. Therefore, when constructing the hydroponic cultivation board system 413, the hydroponic cultivation boards 410 easily engage with each other.

[0225] 5. Fifth Implementation Method

[0226] use Figure 33 The fifth embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention will now be described. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment is similar to the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the first embodiment, and the matters described in the first embodiment also apply to this embodiment without departing from its spirit. Hereinafter, the main differences will be described.

[0227] In this embodiment, engaging portions 401a3, 402a3, 401b3, and 402b3 are respectively provided on the lower protrusions 401a and 402a and the upper protrusions 401b and 402b of the hydroponic cultivation board 410. At the first overlapping portion 403a, engaging portion 402b3 engages with engaging portion 401a3 in the left-right direction, and at the second overlapping portion 403b, engaging portion 402a3 engages with engaging portion 401b3 in the left-right direction. With this structure, tensile force can be effectively transmitted between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 in the hydroponic cultivation board system 413. Therefore, pulling the hydroponic cultivation board 410 located at the end of the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 can move multiple hydroponic cultivation boards 410 included in the hydroponic cultivation board system 413 simultaneously.

[0228] 6. Sixth Implementation Method

[0229] use Figures 34-38 The sixth embodiment of the third aspect of the present invention will now be described. The hydroponic cultivation board 410 of this embodiment has a shape on which the tensile force transmission structure as described in the fifth embodiment is provided in the hydroponic cultivation board 410 of the first embodiment. Therefore, the matters described in the first embodiment also apply to this embodiment without departing from its spirit. Hereinafter, the main differences will be described.

[0230] In this embodiment, the engaging protrusion 401f provided on the left side 401 is received in the engaging recess 402f provided on the right side 402, so that the two adjacent hydroponic cultivation plates 410 engage with each other in the left-right direction, thereby transmitting tensile force.

[0231] like Figure 34 As shown in Figure B, the engaging protrusion 401f is disposed above the lower protrusion 401a on the left side surface 401. The engaging protrusion 401f is disposed within the recess 401ca. That is, the engaging protrusion 401f is positioned between a pair of upper protrusions 401b. Figure 34 As shown in Figure D, a base recess 402g and an engaging recess 402f are provided in the upper protrusion 402b of the right side surface 402. The base recess 402g and the engaging recess 402f are located below the upper protrusion 402b (i.e., on the surface opposite to the lower protrusion 401a). The base recess 402g is configured to extend from the front end of the upper protrusion 402b in the left-right direction toward the base end (base end). The engaging recess 402f is provided to connect with the base recess 402g in the front-back direction. An engaging wall 402h is provided on the right side of the engaging recess 402f.

[0232] When two adjacent hydroponic cultivation boards 410 are locked together, as Figure 35 and Figure 36As shown in Figure A, bring the left panel 411 and right panel 412 close together, and then insert the engaging protrusion 401f of the right panel 412 into the base recess 402g of the left panel 411. Figure 37 As shown in Figure A, when the engaging protrusion 401f is inserted to a position opposite to the engaging recess 402f in the front-back direction, as... Figure 37 As shown in Figure B, by moving the right panel 412 and the left panel 411 relative to each other in the front-back direction, the engaging protrusion 401f can be inserted into the engaging recess 402f. In this state, Figure 38 The engaging protrusion 401f engages with the engaging recess 402f. When a tensile force is applied in the direction that pulls the right panel 412 and the left panel 411 apart, the engaging protrusion 401f abuts against the engaging wall 402h, and the tensile force is transmitted between the left panel 411 and the right panel 412. The engaging protrusion 401f and the engaging wall 402h are preferably solid structures. In this case, the strength of the engaging protrusion 401f and the engaging wall 402h is increased, and they are less prone to deformation when a tensile force is applied in the direction that pulls the right panel 412 and the left panel 411 apart.

[0233] In the fifth embodiment, to engage the right panel 412 and the left panel 411, it is necessary to pass over a protrusion in the thickness direction. As the weight of the panels increases, the operability of engaging the right panel 412 and the left panel 411 tends to deteriorate. In contrast, in this embodiment, the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 can be engaged by moving them relative to each other within the plane, thus providing excellent operability.

[0234] Furthermore, since the base recess 402g and the engaging recess 402f are located below the hydroponic cultivation board 410, when the left panel 411 and right panel 412 are engaged while viewed from above, the base recess 402g cannot be identified, making it difficult to insert the engaging protrusion 401f into it. Although a longer front-to-back length of the base recess 402g makes it easier to insert the engaging protrusion 401f into it, in this case, the length of contact between the engaging protrusion 401f and the engaging wall 402h becomes shorter, making it easy to unintentionally disengage the engagement between the left panel 411 and right panel 412.

[0235] To solve this problem, in this embodiment, such as Figure 36As shown in Figure B, when the engaging protrusion 401f is positioned further away from the engaging wall 402h than the position where it can be inserted into the base recess 402g, the upper protrusion 401b already abuts against the upper protrusion 402b before the engaging protrusion 401f abuts against the upper protrusion 402b. A guide structure 410c is provided at the abutment position between the upper protrusion 401b and the upper protrusion 402b to guide the engaging protrusion 401f to a position where it can be inserted into the base recess 402g. When the left panel 411 and the right panel 412 approach each other, the guide structure 410c guides the engaging protrusion 401f to a position where it can be inserted into the base recess 402g, thereby allowing the engaging protrusion 401f to be easily inserted into the base recess 402g.

[0236] The guide structure 410c is composed of the side surface 402cb1 of the left panel 411 and the side surface 401ca1 of the right panel 412. Compared with the first embodiment, the side surfaces 402cb1 and 401ca1 constituting the guide structure 410c have a larger tilt angle relative to the front-rear direction. Therefore, before the engaging protrusion 401f abuts against the upper protrusion 402b, the side surfaces 402cb1 and 401ca1 abut against each other, guiding the engaging protrusion 401f to a position where it can be inserted into the base recess 402g. The tilt angle of the part with the largest tilt angle among the side surfaces 402cb1 and 401ca1 constituting the guide structure 410c is, for example, 60 to 90 degrees, specifically, 60, 65, 70, 75, 80, 85, and 90 degrees, or it can be a range between any two values ​​exemplified here.

[0237] (Implementation method of viewpoint 4)

[0238] An embodiment of the fourth aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. Figure 39 As shown, the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 according to this embodiment has a generally rectangular outer contour and an upwardly opening, generally concave (in other words, generally shallow dish-shaped) main body 510. Nutrient solution for hydroponic cultivation of plants can be stored in the main body 510, and a hydroponic cultivation board for planting plants floats on the nutrient solution. The main body 510 is entirely formed of rigid plastic (non-foamed material) and is hollow inside. In the following text, the direction along the short side of the main body 510 is considered the front-back direction. Figure 39 The proximal side is the front side (second direction), and the long side is the left and right direction ( Figure 11 The left side of the text is the left side (first direction) for explanation.

[0239] The main body 510 has a base plate 512 forming a base plate, and side plate portions 514 that rise slightly upwards (erect) from the front, rear, left, and right edges 512a, 512b, 512c, and 512d of the base plate 512 to form side plates. The side plate portions 514 have an erected portion 514a that rises slightly outwards from the end edge of the base plate 512 in two stages, and an extended portion 514b that extends horizontally outwards from the erected front end of the erected portion 514a. A reinforcing rib 514a1 protruding inwards (towards the base plate 512) is provided on the erected portion 514a across approximately the entire area. Furthermore, the main body 510 has air supply portions 516, which will be described later, on the extended portions 514b on the front and rear sides for supplying air (fluid) to the base plate 512 side.

[0240] like Figure 40 As shown, the main body 510 is divided into multiple connecting units 520, 530, and 540 connected in the left-right direction. Specifically, the main body 510 is composed of three connecting units 520, 530, and 540: a left-end connecting unit 520 connected to the left end, a right-end connecting unit 530 connected to the right end, and an intermediate connecting unit 540 connecting the left-end connecting unit 520 and the right-end connecting unit 530. The outer contours of each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540 are approximately square, and their sizes are approximately the same.

[0241] The left-end connecting unit 520, the right-end connecting unit 530, and the middle connecting unit 540 each have: a left-end bottom plate portion 522, a right-end bottom plate portion 532, and a middle bottom plate portion 542, which are each part of the bottom plate portion 512 of the main body portion 510; and a left-end side plate portion 524, a right-end side plate portion 534, and a middle side plate portion 544, which are each part of the side plate portion 514 of the main body portion 510. The left-end side plate portion 524, the right-end side plate portion 534, and the middle side plate portion 544 each have: a left-end upright portion 524a, a right-end upright portion 534a, and a middle upright portion 544a, which are each part of the upright portion 514a of the main body portion 510; and a left-end protruding portion 524b, a right-end protruding portion 534b, and a middle protruding portion 544b, which are each part of the protruding portion 514b of the main body portion 510.

[0242] The left-end connecting unit 520 erects a left-end side panel 524 from the front and rear edges 522a, 522b and the left edge 522c of the left-end base plate 522, with the right side (edge ​​522d side) open in the left-right direction (i.e., the left-end side panel 524 is not provided). The right-end connecting unit 530 erects a right-end side panel 534 from the front and rear edges 532a, 532b and the right edge 532d of the right-end base plate 532, with the left side (edge ​​532c side) open in the left-right direction (i.e., the right-end side panel 534 is not provided). The middle connecting unit 540 erects a middle side panel 544 from the front and rear edges 542a, 542b of the middle base plate 542, with the left and right sides (edges 542c, 542d sides) open in the left-right direction respectively (i.e., the middle side panel 544 is not provided).

[0243] Furthermore, the left-end connecting unit 520 has a lower connecting portion (first fitting portion) 526 on the right (open side) edge 522d side. The right-end connecting unit 530 has an upper connecting portion (second fitting portion) 538 on the left (open side) edge 532c side. The middle connecting unit 540 has an upper connecting portion (second fitting portion) 548 on the left (open side) edge 542c side and a lower connecting portion (first fitting portion) 546 on the right (open side) edge 542d side.

[0244] like Figure 41 As shown, the lower connecting portion 546 of the intermediate connecting unit 540 is made thinner than the wall thickness of the intermediate base plate portion 542 and the intermediate side plate portion 544. Specifically, the lower connecting portion 546 is shaped after removing the inner portions in the thickness direction of the intermediate base plate portion 542 and the intermediate side plate portion 544 (the upper portion of the intermediate base plate portion 542, the rear portion of the front intermediate side plate portion 544, and the front portion of the rear intermediate side plate portion 544). The left and right sides of the lower connecting portion 546 are respectively provided with upwardly opening fitting recesses 546a that extend in a groove shape along the front-rear direction.

[0245] Between the two fitting recesses 546a, a pair of sealing material receiving portions 546b, each containing sealing material 550, are provided in a groove shape along the front-back direction (see reference). Figure 43 The sealing material 550 housed in each sealing material receiving portion 546b is generally prismatic and extends in the front-to-back direction. The sealing material 550 may be formed of, for example, silicone rubber. The thickness of the sealing material 550 in the vertical direction is smaller than its thickness in the horizontal direction, and its top surface is slightly higher than the opening of the sealing material receiving portion 546b. Each fitting recess 546a and each sealing material 550 (each sealing material receiving portion 546b) is disposed transversely from near the front end of the lower connecting portion 546 to near the rear end.

[0246] A plurality of lower screw holes 546c (for screw fixing) are provided between two sealing materials 550 (two sealing material receiving portions 546b). That is, the two sealing materials 550 are provided with each lower screw hole 546c spaced apart in the left-right direction. The plurality of lower screw holes 546c are provided at approximately equal intervals in the front-back direction. The plurality of lower screw holes 546c are provided only in the portion extending from the middle base plate portion 542 in the lower connecting portion 546, and are continuous in the vertical direction. Furthermore, the interval between each lower screw hole 546c and one of the sealing materials 550 is approximately equal to the interval between each lower screw hole 546c and the other sealing material 550. The screw engagement member S1, which will be described below, is inserted into each lower screw hole 546c. It should be noted that the lower connecting portion 526 provided on the left end connecting unit 520 has the same structure as the lower connecting portion 546 provided on the middle connecting unit 540.

[0247] On the other hand, the upper connecting portion 548 of the intermediate connecting unit 540, as Figure 42 As shown, the upper connecting portion 548 is made thinner than the wall thickness of the intermediate base plate portion 542 and the intermediate side plate portion 544. Specifically, the upper connecting portion 548 is shaped after removing the outer portions in the thickness direction of the intermediate base plate portion 542 and the intermediate side plate portion 544 (the lower portion of the intermediate base plate portion 542, the front portion of the front intermediate side plate portion 544, and the rear portion of the rear intermediate side plate portion 544). The lower surface of the upper connecting portion 548 is shaped to correspond to the upper surface shape of the lower connecting portion 526 (lower connecting portion 546).

[0248] The upper connecting portion 548 has mating protrusions 548a on its left and right sides, which are arranged in the front-to-back direction and protrude downwards. Multiple upper screw holes 548c, through which the screwing member S1 is inserted, are provided between the two mating protrusions 548a in the front-to-back direction. The upper connecting portion 538 on the right-end connecting unit 530 has the same structure as the upper connecting portion 548 on the middle connecting unit 540, and each has mating protrusions 538a and upper screw holes 538c at corresponding positions (see reference). Figure 43 ).

[0249] like Figure 43 As shown, the fitting protrusions 538a and upper screw holes 538c of the upper connecting portion 538 provided on the right-end connecting unit 530 correspond in the vertical direction to the fitting recesses 546a and lower screw holes 546c of the lower connecting portion 546 provided on the middle connecting unit 540. Therefore, by aligning the upper connecting portion 538 of the right-end connecting unit 530 and the lower connecting portion 546 of the middle connecting unit 540 in the vertical direction (the normal direction of the plate surface of the middle base plate portion 542), the fitting protrusions 538a can be fitted into the fitting recesses 546a, thereby aligning the openings of the upper screw holes 538c with the openings of the lower screw holes 546c.

[0250] Thus, the upper connecting portion 538 of the right-end connecting unit 530 coincides with the lower connecting portion 546 of the middle connecting unit 540. Each lower screw hole 546c and each upper screw hole 538c are inserted through the screw engagement member S1 from the lower side, and the upper connecting portion 538 and the lower connecting portion 546 are fixed together with bolts, thereby connecting the right-end connecting unit 530 and the middle connecting unit 540. The upper connecting portion 538 and the lower connecting portion 546 are fitted together in the vertical direction, and their thickness is approximately equal to the thickness of each base plate portion 522, 532, 542 and each side plate portion 524, 534, 544. The top surface of each base plate portion 522, 532, 542 is on the same plane as the top surface of the upper connecting portion 538 (548). In this way, two adjacent connecting units 520, 530, and 540 can fit together in the vertical direction, making it easy to connect them.

[0251] Furthermore, by screwing the upper connecting portion 538 and the lower connecting portion 546 together, the sealing materials 550 provided on the lower connecting portion 546 can press against the upper connecting portion 538 and make it abut against the upper connecting portion 538. In this way, the upper connecting portion 538 and the lower connecting portion 546 are sealed by the sealing materials 550 from near the front end to near the rear end. As a result, leakage of nutrient solution from the mating parts of the two connecting units 520, 530, 540 (between the lower connecting portions 526, 546 and the upper connecting portions 538, 548, each upper screw hole 538c and each lower screw hole 546c) can be prevented when the connecting units 520, 530, 540 are connected to each other and when nutrient solution is stored in the main body 510. Furthermore, since the intervals from each lower screw hole 546c to the two sealing materials 550 are approximately equal, a roughly equal force is applied to the pair of sealing materials 550 during screwing, thereby ensuring that the two sealing materials 550 press against the upper connecting portions 538 and 548 with roughly equal force. It should be noted that the connection between the upper connecting portion 548 provided on the intermediate connecting unit 540 and the lower connecting portion 526 provided on the left connecting unit 520 is also a similar connection pattern.

[0252] Next, the air supply unit 516 installed on the main body 510 of the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 will be described. For example... Figure 40 As shown, air supply sections 516 are provided on the protrusions 524b, 534b, and 544b of each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540. That is, the main body 510 has six air supply sections 516. Figure 41As shown, one side of the air supply section 516 is a roughly semi-cylindrical shape with a flat surface, and the interior has an air supply passage 516a. The air supply section 516 is integrally formed with the main body 510 and is made of the same rigid plastic (non-foamed material) as the main body 510. The dimension of the air supply section 516 in the cylindrical axis direction is approximately equal to the left-right dimension of the protrusions 524b, 534b, and 544b provided on each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540. Multiple air outlets 516b are provided at approximately equal intervals along the cylindrical axis direction on the outer peripheral surface of the air supply section 516. The opening of each air outlet 516b is a horizontally elongated elliptical shape (with the cylindrical axis direction as the major axis direction) and faces the bottom plate section 542 (522, 532).

[0253] like Figure 42 and Figure 44 As shown, an inner connecting portion (connected port) 516d is provided at one end of the air supply section 516, protruding in an axial shape from that end along the cylinder axis. The inner connecting portion 516d extends through the interior along the cylinder axis and communicates with the air supply passage 516a. An outer connecting portion (connected port) 516e is provided at the other end of the air supply section 516, protruding in an axial shape from that end along the cylinder axis. The outer connecting portion 516e extends through the interior along the cylinder axis and communicates with the air supply passage 516a. Thus, by supplying air from the inner connecting portion 516d or the outer connecting portion 516e, air can flow throughout the entire area within the air supply passage 516a, and air can be blown out from each outlet 516b toward the base plate portion 542 (522, 532).

[0254] The opening diameter of the outer connecting portion 516e is approximately equal to the outer diameter of the inner connecting portion 516d. By inserting the inner connecting portion 516d into the inside of the outer connecting portion 516e, the inner connecting portion 516d and the outer connecting portion 516e can be connected (see reference). Figure 44 (Dash line shown). By connecting the inner connecting portion 516d to the outer connecting portion 516e, the internally provided air supply passage 516a can be connected between adjacent air supply portions 516. Thus, by introducing air from the inner connecting portion 516d exposed at the end of one of the connected air supply portions 516 or from the opening of the outer connecting portion 516e, air can flow into the air supply passage 516a of each air supply portion 516.

[0255] In this way, the air supply section 516 can supply air through either the opening of the inner connecting section 516d or the opening of the outer connecting section 516e. Therefore, when hydroponically cultivating plants by floating a hydroponic cultivation board on the nutrient solution stored in the main body section 510, larger plants with greater growth are placed on the side where the air is supplied (windward side), i.e., the side with a larger air volume, while smaller plants with less growth are placed on the side where the air is discharged (leeward side), i.e., the side with a smaller air volume. This effectively promotes plant growth.

[0256] Next, refer to Figure 42 , Figure 43 ,as well as Figure 45 The water delivery units 529, 539, and 549 provided on the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 will be described below. The water delivery units 529, 539, and 549 are located on the underside of the base plates 522, 532, and 542 of each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540. That is, the main body 510 has three water delivery units 529, 539, and 549. Each water delivery unit 529, 539, and 549 has the same structure; the water delivery unit 549 provided on the intermediate connecting unit 540 will be described below.

[0257] The water delivery section 549 extends across approximately the entire area below the base plate 542 in a curved manner, extending multiple times. A water delivery path 549a is formed inside the water delivery section 549 to serve as a space for water (fluid) flow. A clamping part 542e is provided on the lower surface of the base plate 542, which clamps a portion of the lower surface of the base plate 542 to the upper side around the water delivery path 549a (in other words, the water delivery section 549 is formed using the clamping part 542e). That is, the water delivery path 549a is formed using a portion of the internal space of the hollow body section 510, and is a space separated from the internal space of the body section 510 by the clamping part 542e. Therefore, the water delivery paths 529a, 539a, and 549a can be provided while reducing the weight of the hydroponic cultivation bed 501.

[0258] One end of the water supply passage 549a (hereinafter referred to as "first inlet 549a1") is located approximately at the center of the portion of the base plate portion 542 of the intermediate connecting unit 540 that is close to the upper connecting portion 548 in the front-rear direction. The other end of the water supply passage 549a (hereinafter referred to as "second inlet 549a2") is located approximately at the center of the portion of the base plate portion 542 of the intermediate connecting unit 540 that is close to the lower connecting portion 546 in the front-rear direction. Both the first inlet 549a1 and the second inlet 549a2 are generally frustoconical in shape, and an inlet 549b that opens downwards is provided on their inner sides. Water can be introduced into the water supply passage 549a through this inlet 549b.

[0259] A nozzle component 560 for opening and closing the inlet 549b is installed in the inlet 549b of each inlet section 549a1, 549a2. It should be noted that... Figure 43 and Figure 45In the middle, the parts of the left end connecting unit 520 corresponding to the pressing part 542e, water supply part 549, water supply path 549a, first inlet part 549a1 and second inlet part 549a2 of the intermediate connecting unit 540 are represented by symbols 522e, 529, 529a, 529a1 and 529a2, respectively. The parts of the right end connecting unit 530 corresponding to the pressing part 542e, water supply part 549, water supply path 549a, first inlet part 549a1 and second inlet part 549a2 and inlet 549b of the intermediate connecting unit 540 are represented by symbols 532e, 539, 539a, 539a1, 539a2 and 539b, respectively.

[0260] By opening the nozzle assembly 560, water is introduced into each water supply path 529a, 539a, and 549a through the inlet ports 539b and 549b, thereby cooling the connecting units 520, 530, and 540 installed in each water supply path 529a, 539a, and 549a. Since the water supply sections 529, 539, and 549 are installed across approximately the entire area below the base plates 522, 532, and 542, they can effectively cool each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540.

[0261] In addition, such as Figure 45 As shown, the first inlet portions 529a1, 539a1, and 549a1 provided on one side of adjacent connecting units 520, 530, and 540 can be connected by pipe components 570 to the second inlet portions 529a2, 539a2, and 549a2 provided on the other side. In this way, each water supply path 529a, 539a, and 549a is interconnected by the pipe components 570, allowing water to be introduced into a portion of the water supply paths 529a, 539a, and 549a, thereby enabling water to be introduced into each water supply path 529a, 539a, and 549a.

[0262] As described above, the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 according to this embodiment includes a generally concave body portion 510 for storing liquid. The interior of the body portion 510 is hollow, and a portion of the interior has an air supply passage 516a for airflow and a water supply passage 529a, 539a, and 549a for waterflow. In this way, it is not necessary to provide additional components in the part of the body portion 510 that stores nutrient solution, etc., so that air and water can flow into the hydroponic cultivation bed 501, thus making it easy to clean the part that stores nutrient solution, etc. Therefore, this embodiment provides a hydroponic cultivation bed 501 with excellent durability and easy maintenance.

[0263] Furthermore, the main body 510 of the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 according to this embodiment is made of rigid plastic, a non-foamed material. This improves the durability of the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 and prevents leakage of the nutrient solution stored in the main body 510. Therefore, unlike conventional hydroponic cultivation beds using polystyrene foam, it is not necessary to install membrane components or the like in the nutrient solution storage area. Thus, a cleaning robot can be used to automatically clean the nutrient solution storage area of ​​the main body 510, making the maintenance of the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 easier than before. Additionally, by making the main body 510 hollow, the weight of the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 can be reduced.

[0264] Furthermore, in the hydroponic cultivation bed 501, the main body 510 is composed of three connecting units 520, 530, and 540 connected in the left-right direction. Each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540 has a base plate portion 522, 532, and 542 that is approximately rectangular, and a side plate portion 524, 534, and 544 that rises from the edge of the base plate portion 522, 532, and 542, respectively, and at least one side is open in the left-right direction. Thus, by connecting the open sides of each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540 to each other, a generally concave portion for storing nutrient solution can be formed, surrounded by each base plate portion 512, 532, and 542 and each side plate portion 524, 534, and 544, when each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540 is connected. Furthermore, by configuring the main body 510 in the manner described above as a structure connected by multiple connecting units 520, 530, and 540, the maintenance of the main body 510 can be made easier.

[0265] Furthermore, in the hydroponic cultivation bed 501, each connecting unit 520, 530, and 540 has a lower connecting portion 526, 546 and an upper connecting portion 538, 548 on its open side, and they are connected by interlocking the lower connecting portions 526, 546 and the upper connecting portions 538, 548 of adjacent connecting units 520, 530, and 540. This provides a specific structure for connecting two adjacent connecting units 520, 530, and 540.

[0266] Furthermore, the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 includes an air supply path 516a that serves as a flow path for air supply in the left-right direction on the front ends (protrusions 524b, 534b, 544b) of the side plate portions 524, 534, 544, which stand upright on both sides of the edges perpendicular to the left-right direction of the edges of the base plate portions 522, 532, 542. The air supply path 516a has an outlet 516b that blows the air flowing through the air supply path 516a toward the base plate portions 522, 532, 542. This structure provides a specific configuration in which, when the hydroponic cultivation board, in which nutrient solution is stored in the body portion 510 and on which plants are planted, floats on the nutrient solution, it can supply air to the plant side (the base plate portions 522, 532, 542 side).

[0267] Furthermore, the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 includes water delivery channels 529a, 539a, and 549a located on the lower side of the base plates 522, 532, and 542 (opposite to the upright side of the side plates 524, 534, and 544) to deliver water. Each of the water delivery channels 529a, 539a, and 549a has an inlet 539b at each end for introducing water into the water delivery channels 529a, 539a, and 549a. Therefore, when the main body 510 contains nutrient solution, cooling water can be circulated into the water delivery channels 529a, 539a, and 549a to cool the nutrient solution. Thus, a specific structure can be provided that allows the water delivery channels 529a, 539a, and 549a for cooling the nutrient solution to be located inside the main body 510. Furthermore, by connecting adjacent inlets 539b and 549b with pipe components 570, water supply paths 529a, 539a, and 549a can be connected between adjacent connection units 520, 530, and 540, thereby enabling cooling water to flow into each connection unit 520, 530, and 540 at once.

[0268] Here, assuming a water delivery channel is provided on the upper side of the base plate, since the main body contains nutrient solution, the water delivery channel will be immersed in the solution, causing problems such as plant roots becoming entangled in the water delivery channel and difficulty in cleaning the nutrient solution storage area. In contrast, the hydroponic cultivation bed 501 of this embodiment, by providing water delivery channels 529a, 539a, and 549a on the lower side of the base plates 522, 532, and 542, can make the upper surface of the base plates 522, 532, and 542 a flat surface, thereby preventing the above-mentioned problems.

[0269] The embodiments described above relate to the fourth aspect of the present invention. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications can be made without departing from its spirit. For example, the size, arrangement, and shape of the holes provided in the hydroponic cultivation board can be appropriately changed. For example, although the above embodiments are described using a structure consisting of three interconnected units of a hydroponic cultivation bed as an example, the hydroponic cultivation bed can also be composed of two or four or more interconnected units. Furthermore, although the above embodiments are described using a structure in which the air supply unit and the main body are integrally formed as an example, the air supply unit can also be a separate entity from the main body and can be configured to be detachable from each protrusion.

[0270] (Symbol Explanation)

[0271] 10: Hydroponic cultivation board; 10a: Top; 10b: Bottom; 12: Handle; 20: Hole; 30: Top side sheet; 30a: First molten resin sheet; 32: Top side opening; 40: Bottom side sheet; 42: Bottom side opening; 42a: First conical part; 42b: Second conical part; 50: Peg; 60: Resin molding device; 61: First mold; 61a: Chamber; 61b: Clamping part; 62: Second mold; 62a: Chamber; 62b: Clamping part; 63: Frame; 64: Frame; 71: First pin; 72: Second pin; 120: Hole; 132: Top side opening; 142: Bottom side opening; 142a: First conical part; 220: Hole; 232: Top side opening. 242: Lower side opening; D1~D5: Opening diameter; J: Joint; N: Nutrient solution; P: Plant; S: Space; W1, W2: Lateral width; W3~W5: Longitudinal width; θ1~θ3: Inclination angle; 304: Cultivated material; 305: Preform; 305a: First resin sheet; 305b: Second resin sheet; 305c: Burr; 307: Welded part; 308: Molded body; 309: Nutrient solution; 310: Hydroponic cultivation board; 310a: Top; 310b: Bottom; 320: Hole; 320a: Base surface; 320b: Inner edge; 320c: Lower side; 320d: Protrusion; 320e: Conical surface; 320f: Outer edge; 320g: Location; 320h: Outer side. 320i: Upper side surface; 320j: Non-thin-walled portion; 320k: Cut surface; 320l: Protruding resin portion; 321: First mold; 321a: First rib; 321b: First base; 321c: First mounting protrusion; 321e: First mounting hole; 321f: Shaped surface; 321g: Front end face; 321h: Outer edge; 321i: Annular surface; 321j: Recess; 322: Second mold; 322a: Second rib; 322b: Second base; 322c: Second mounting protrusion; 322e: Second mounting hole; 322f: Shaped surface; 322g: Front end face; 322h: Outer edge; 322i: Annular surface; 322j: Recess; 323: Resin accumulation portion; 350: Plug. B: Region, C1: Center position, C2: Center position, D1: Opening diameter, D2: Opening diameter, D3: Opening diameter, E: Region, P: Plant, α: Angle, γ: Inclined angle, θ: Angle, 401: Left side, 401a: Lower protrusion, 401a1: Inclined surface, 401a2: Top, 401a3: Engaging part, 401a4: Root edge, 401a5: Front edge, 401b: Upper protrusion, 401b1: Inclined surface, 401b2: Bottom, 401b3: Engaging part, 401b6: Front end, 401c: Concave-convex part, 401ca: Concave part, 401ca1: Side, 401ca2: Stage, 401ca3: Bottom surface, 401cb: Convex part401cb3: Front end, 401d: Flat part, 401f: Engaging protrusion, 402: Right side surface, 402a: Lower side protrusion, 402a1: Inclined surface, 402a2: Top surface, 402a3: Engaging part, 402b: Upper side protrusion, 402b1: Inclined surface, 402b2: Bottom surface, 402b3: Engaging part, 402b4: Root edge, 402b5: Front edge, 402b6: Front end, 402c: Concave-convex part, 402ca: Concave part, 402ca3: Bottom surface, 402cb: Protrusion, 402cb1: Side surface, 402cb2: Stage, 402cb3: Front end, 402d: Flat part, 402f: Engaging concave part, 402g: Base concave part, 402h: 403: Overlapping section, 403a: First overlapping section, 403b: Second overlapping section, 410: Hydroponic cultivation board, 410a: Top, 410b: Bottom, 410c: Guide structure, 411: Left panel, 412: Right panel, 413: Hydroponic cultivation board system, 420: Hole, PL: Parting line, 501: Hydroponic cultivation bed, 510: Main body, 512: Bottom plate, 512a: Edge, 512b: Edge, 512c: Edge, 512d: Edge, 514: Side plate, 514a: Erected part, 514a1: Reinforcing rib, 514b: Protrusion, 516: Air supply part, 516a: Air supply path, 516b: Air outlet, 516d: Inner connection part, 516e: Outer Side connecting part, 520: Left end connecting unit, 522: Left end bottom plate part, 522a: Edge, 522b: Edge, 522c: Edge, 522d: Edge, 522e: Pressing part, 524: Left end side plate part, 524a: Left end upright part, 524b: Left end protrusion part, 526: Lower connecting part, 529: Water supply part, 529a: Water supply path, 529a1: First inlet part, 529a2: Second inlet part, 530: Right end connecting unit, 532: Right end bottom plate part, 532a: Edge, 532b: Edge, 532c: Edge, 532d: Edge, 532e: Pressing part, 534: Right end side plate part, 534a: Right end upright part, 534b: Right end protrusion part, 538: Upper side Connecting part, 538a: Fitting protrusion, 538c: Upper screw hole, 539: Water supply part, 539a: Water supply passage, 539a1: First inlet part, 539a2: Second inlet part, 539b: Inlet port, 540: Intermediate connecting unit, 542: Intermediate base plate part, 542a: Edge, 542b: Edge, 542c: Edge, 542d: Edge, 542e: Pressing part, 544: Intermediate side plate part, 544a: Intermediate upright part, 544b: Intermediate protrusion part, 546: Lower connecting part, 546a: Fitting recess, 546b: Sealing material receiving part, 546c: Lower screw hole, 548: Upper connecting part, 549: Water supply part, 549a: Water supply passage, 549a1: First inlet part,549a2: Second inlet section; 549b: Inlet port; 550: Sealing material; 560: Nozzle component; 570: Pipe component; S1: Threaded component.

Claims

1. A board for hydroponics, having multiple holes, characterized in that, The hole includes an upper side opening that opens to the upper side of the hydroponic cultivation board into which the plant is inserted, and a lower side opening that communicates with the upper side opening and opens to the lower side of the hydroponic cultivation board, having a shape that gradually widens towards the lower side. The hydroponic cultivation board is hollow inside, and the upper opening is formed by bending a portion of the upper side inward, while the lower opening is formed by bending a portion of the lower side inward. At least the upper side is formed of a non-foamed material. The upper side sheet disposed on the upper side and the lower side sheet disposed on the lower side are attached to each other. A space is formed between the upper side sheet and the lower side sheet, thereby creating a hollow space between the upper side sheet and the lower side sheet. The lower opening is inclined in multiple stages with an angle that gradually decreases towards the lower side relative to the normal direction of the hydroponic cultivation board.

2. The hydroponic cultivation board according to claim 1, characterized in that, The lower side opening is formed by bending a portion of the lower side sheet toward the inner side.

3. The hydroponic cultivation board according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in that, The upper opening is a tapered shape that gradually widens towards the upper side.

4. A method for manufacturing a hydroponic cultivation board, wherein the hydroponic cultivation board has a plurality of holes, and the manufacturing method comprises: The process of placing a first molten resin sheet in a first mold and placing a second molten resin sheet in a second mold; and The welding process of closing the first mold and the second mold, and welding the first molten resin sheet and the second molten resin sheet, is characterized in that... In the configuration process, a protrusion with a shape that gradually expands towards the first mold side is provided on the first mold, and the first molten resin sheet is arranged on the surface containing the protrusion, and the hole is provided at the position where it overlaps with the protrusion of the first molten resin sheet.

5. A panel for hydroponics. The panel has holes for inserting the culture medium, and the holes extend through the panel in the vertical direction. The hole contains an annular base surface and an upper side surface, the upper side surface extending upward from the outer edge of the base surface. The base surface is not parallel to the upper side surface. The opening diameter of the hole at the inner edge of the base surface is the smallest.

6. The panel according to claim 5, wherein, The base surface is a flat surface parallel to the top.

7. The panel according to claim 5, wherein, The hole is provided on a lower side surface, which extends downward from the inner edge of the base surface. The angle between the base surface and the lower side surface is 20 to 90 degrees.

8. The panel according to claim 7, wherein, The lower side surface is a conical surface that gradually expands in diameter downwards.

9. A method for manufacturing a board for hydroponics. It has configuration, forming, and post-processing processes. In the configuration process, the first mold and the second mold, which are mutually openable and closable, are opened, and the preform is placed between the first mold and the second mold. The first mold has the first rib. The second mold has a second rib. The first and second ribs are arranged opposite each other. The diameter of the outer edge of the front face of the first rib is larger than the diameter of the outer edge of the front face of the second rib. In the forming process, with the preform positioned between the first mold and the second mold, the first mold and the second mold are closed, causing the first rib and the second rib to abut against each other. Simultaneously, the opposing inner surfaces of the preform are welded together to form a welded portion, and the preform is formed into a panel shape, thus forming a molded body. In the post-processing step, the welded portion forms a hole.

10. The manufacturing method according to claim 9, wherein, The removal of the welded portion is carried out along the outer edge of the part where the front end face of the second rib is pressed.

11. The method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein, At least one of the front end faces of the first rib and the second rib is provided with an annular surface. A recess is provided on the inner side of the annular surface.

12. The method according to claim 11, wherein, The annular surface is disposed on both the front end surface of the first rib and the front end surface of the second rib. The width of the annular surface of the first rib is greater than the width of the annular surface of the second rib.

13. A panel for hydroponics, The panel has a left side and a right side. The left side has a lower protrusion that protrudes more than the upper side of the left side, and an upper protrusion that protrudes more than the lower side of the left side. The right side has a lower protrusion that protrudes more than the upper side, and an upper protrusion that protrudes more than the lower side. The lower protrusion on the left side and the upper protrusion on the right side are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction. The upper protrusion on the left side and the lower protrusion on the right side are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction.

14. The panel according to claim 13, wherein, The left side has a pair of upper protrusions, and on the left side, the lower protrusion is disposed between the pair of upper protrusions. The right side has a pair of lower protrusions, and on the right side, the upper protrusion is disposed between the pair of lower protrusions.

15. The panel according to claim 13, wherein, The left side and the right side each have a flat portion that is flat across the entire range of the convex and concave portions, respectively, at the portion adjacent to the thickness direction of the concave and convex portions. The flat portion on the left side and the flat portion on the right side are positioned opposite each other in the left-right direction.

16. The panel according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein, The panel is not a point-symmetric shape.

17. The panel according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein, The panel has a point-symmetric shape.

18. A hydroponic cultivation board system, comprising multiple hydroponic cultivation boards arranged in series. The plurality of hydroponic cultivation boards have adjacent left and right panels. The left panel and the right panel are the panels described in any one of claims 13 to 15. The upper protrusion on the right side of the left panel overlaps with the lower protrusion on the left side of the right panel. The lower protrusion of the right side of the left panel overlaps with the upper protrusion of the left side of the right panel in such a way that it is disposed below the upper protrusion of the left side of the right panel.

19. A hydroponic cultivation bed, characterized in that, It has a generally concave body portion for storing liquid. The main body has a generally rectangular base plate and a side plate that rises from the edge of the base plate. The interior of the base plate is hollowed out by pressing a portion of the lower part of the base plate against the upper side, and a portion of the interior has a water supply passage that is located on the opposite side of the side plate that rises from the base plate and supplies water.

20. The hydroponic cultivation bed according to claim 19, characterized in that, The water delivery path has inlets at both ends for introducing water into the water delivery path.

21. The hydroponic cultivation bed according to claim 19, characterized in that, The main body is composed of a plurality of connecting units connected in the first direction. At least one side of each of the plurality of connecting units is open in the first direction. Each of the plurality of connecting units has a fitting portion on the open side, and the fitting portions of two adjacent connecting units are fitted together.

22. The hydroponic cultivation bed according to claim 21, characterized in that, The hydroponic cultivation bed is configured such that the water supply path is connected in each of the plurality of connecting units.

23. The hydroponic cultivation bed according to claim 21 or 22, characterized in that, The hydroponic cultivation bed also has an air supply path disposed on the raised front end of the side plate portion, which is erected from the edges of the edge in a second direction perpendicular to the first direction, and which supplies air along the first direction. The air supply path has an outlet that blows air flowing within the air supply path toward the bottom plate side.

24. The hydroponic cultivation bed according to claim 23, characterized in that, The hydroponic cultivation bed is configured such that the air supply path is connected in each of the plurality of connecting units.

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