Tray assembly for germination and growth of plant seeds

Abstract

Tray assemblies for germination and growth of plant seeds are provided. Preferably, the tray assembly includes an outer tray, an inner tray, an inner divider frame, and a cover. The dividers or bulkheads of the internal divider frame form a plurality of compartments across the frame. Each compartment is configured to accommodate at least one seed for germination and growth. Seeds are placed in the compartment and allowed to float in water and / or in humid air. The cover body is placed on the separator frame and used for shielding light and keeping heat. Once the seeds germinate, they may be placed in a growth medium that contributes to promoting plant growth and development.

Description

[0001] CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0002] This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 391,471, filed on July 22, 2022, the entire disclosure of which is incorporated herein by reference. Technical Field

[0003] The present invention generally relates to a tray assembly for storing, germinating and growing plant seeds. More specifically, the present invention relates to a tray assembly that includes different compartments. The seeds are placed in the compartments and allowed to float in water and / or placed in moist air. A cover is placed on the tray assembly to block light and retain heat. Once the seeds germinate, they can be placed in a growing medium that helps promote plant growth and development. Background Art

[0004] In recent years, "at home" seed germination and plant growing systems have become popular. These systems allow "at home" gardeners to germinate and grow plants in the comfort and privacy of their own homes or greenhouses. Typically, these traditional systems use water, paper towels / plastic bags, and a dark storage cabinet or storage room. The seeds are soaked in water for about 18 to about 24 hours. The seeds are then wrapped in paper towels and placed in a plastic bag for a sufficient period of time, such as about 3 to about 5 days. The seeds are kept in a dark storage cabinet or storage room during the germination process. The resulting seedlings can be transferred to a planting pot containing soil and plant nutrients to promote plant development.

[0005] Although some traditional seed germination and growth systems are generally effective in creating a favorable environment, these systems have some disadvantages. For example, in some traditional systems, seeds may be physically damaged and the growing medium may not be properly controlled. In some cases, heat and humidity may be insufficient; while in other cases, there may be too much heat and moisture. It is difficult to adjust the heat and humidity levels in some traditional systems. Another problem with many traditional systems is that there is no feasible way to properly manage and mark seeds. Therefore, when multiple seed varieties are placed in planting pots or other containers, these seeds will be mixed together, which can have a harmful effect. Sorting seeds and plants may be time-consuming, and it is possible that seeds will not germinate or germination will be delayed. If there are some plants growing, these plants may not develop normally. Compared with some traditional tray systems, the tray assembly of the present invention provides an effective means for marking and managing seeds and plants. As further described below, the tray assembly of the present invention provides additional features, benefits and advantages. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006] The novel features characteristic of the present invention are set forth in the appended claims. However, the preferred embodiments of the present invention as well as further objects and attendant advantages may be better understood by reference to the following detailed description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0007] Figure 1 is a top view of one embodiment of a tray assembly of the present invention showing a first outer container tray, a second inner tray, and an inner divider frame;

[0008] Figure 1A yes Figure 1 a top view of the first outer container pallet shown;

[0009] Figure 1B yes Figure 1 A top view of the first outer container tray and second inner tray subassembly is shown;

[0010] Figure 1C yes Figure 1 a top view of the second inner tray subassembly and the inner divider frame shown;

[0011] Figure 2 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an internal divider frame for a tray assembly of the present invention;

[0012] Figure 2A yes Figure 2 a top view of the internal divider frame shown;

[0013] Figure 3 is a top view of a second embodiment of an internal divider frame for a tray assembly of the present invention;

[0014] Figure 4 is a perspective view showing the inner divider frame inserted into the inner tray and the locking mechanism for the divider frame and the inner tray.

[0015] Figure 5 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an internal divider frame showing an oblique angle of the divider frame;

[0016] Figure 6 is a side view of one embodiment of an inner tray showing a protruding foot portion;

[0017] Figure 7 is a perspective view of one embodiment of an inner tray and a cover of the tray assembly, wherein the cover is disposed below the inner tray;

[0018] Figure 8 is a top perspective view of a tray assembly showing an embodiment of a cover disposed on the tray;

[0019] Fig. 9is a bottom perspective view of a tray assembly showing one embodiment of a tray base;

[0020] Fig.10 is a side view of three tray assemblies stacked on top of each other;

[0021] Fig.11 is a top view of another embodiment of a tray assembly of the present invention;

[0022] Fig.12 It is a stereogram of an embodiment of a tweezer tool of the present invention.

[0023] Fig.13 It shows that according to the present invention Fig.12 A schematic diagram of a tweezer tool being inserted into a tray;

[0024] Fig.14 yes Fig.12 A side view of a tweezer tool;

[0025] Fig.15 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a split cabin of the present invention;

[0026] Fig.16 is a top view of an embodiment of a split cabin manipulation tool of the present invention;

[0027] Fig.17 Shows Fig.16 A schematic diagram of a split compartment manipulation tool for removing a split compartment from an internal divider tray;

[0028] Fig.18 is a bottom perspective view of a tray assembly showing an embodiment of a base of the tray assembly, wherein the base includes an annular recess for inserting a thermal pad sensor;

[0029] Fig.18A yes Fig.18B A close up view of the heat pad sensor shown extending through the annular notch;

[0030] Fig.18B yes Fig.18 a bottom perspective view of the tray assembly shown and further showing a thermal pad sensor inserted through the annular recess;

[0031] Fig.19 is a perspective view of one embodiment of a first outer container tray, wherein the container tray includes low-water and high-water fill indicators;

[0032] Fig. 20 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a split cabin of the present invention;

[0033] Fig.21 is a perspective view of an embodiment of a split compartment manipulation tool of the present invention; and

[0034] Fig. 22 It shows Fig.21 Schematic diagram of a split compartment manipulation tool removing a split compartment from an internal divider tray. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0035] The invention provides a tray assembly for germination and growth of plant seeds. The tray assembly comprises different compartments.

[0036] Round Tray

[0037] Referring to the drawings, wherein like reference numerals are used to denote like elements. In particular, Figure 1 One embodiment of a tray assembly of the present invention is shown, generally indicated at (10). The tray assembly (10) is shown having a first (outer) container tray (12). Figure 1A As shown, the outer container pallet (12) has a floor or bottom (14) and a peripheral wall (16). The second (inner) pallet (18) is configured so that it can be mounted within the first container pallet (12), such as Figure 1B As shown. The second (inner) tray (18) may also be referred to as a filter tray. The inner (filter) tray comprises a bottom plate or base (19) having perforations or holes (21). Go to Figure 1C , the internal divider frame (25) can be fitted into the internal (screen) tray (18). As discussed further below, the partitions or dividers (28) of the divider frame can have perforations or holes (81) so that air and water can pass between the tray compartments.

[0038] In practice, the inner (screen) tray (18) is first placed into the outer tray (12) so that it rests on the floor (14) of the outer tray (12). In a preferred embodiment, the screen can be adapted to accommodate laboratory filter paper. The filter paper is placed on the floor or bottom (19). The filter paper helps prevent taproots from growing through the screen holes and serves to separate sediment from the water. Figure 1AAs shown, in one embodiment, the outer tray (12) includes a male member (20) that is inserted into a recess (22) of the first (outer) tray so that the male member interlocks with the recess. The male member and the recess (20, 22) are complementary and interlock with each other. In this way, the inner tray and the outer tray (18, 12) are tightly fixed together. The inner tray and the outer tray (18, 12) are locked in place. In this example, the male member (20) has a V-shaped structure, and the complementary recess (22) is also V-shaped. However, it should be understood that the male member (20) and the recess (22) can have any suitable cross-sectional shape, such as circular, oval, triangular, square, pentagonal, hexagonal, heptagonal, octagonal, etc. It should also be recognized that other locking mechanisms for interlocking the inner tray and the outer tray (18, 12) can be used according to the present invention.

[0039] Reference Figure 2 , Figure 2A and Figure 3 In a preferred embodiment, an internal divider frame (25) is assembled into the inner tray (18). The internal divider frame (25) contains dividers (partitions) (28) that divide the interior of the tray into different compartments. Figure 2 and Figure 2A There are eight (8) compartments (30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42 and 44). Figure 3 In one embodiment, the divider frame (25) includes six (6) compartments. The dividers (28) extend outwardly from a central connecting post (46) and extend to a peripheral wall (48). The central connector (46) may also be referred to as a pivot connector. In one embodiment, the peripheral wall (48) of the divider frame (25) does not extend around the compartments (30). Instead, as Figure 4 As shown, in this example, the compartments 30 are defined by radial partitions 25 and the peripheral wall 50 of the inner (screen) tray 18. It should be understood that this embodiment in which the peripheral wall (48) of the divider frame (25) does not extend around the compartments (30) is only one embodiment and is shown for illustration purposes only. In other embodiments, the peripheral wall (48) of the divider frame (25) extends completely around all compartments including the compartment (30).

[0040] Any suitable locking mechanism may be used to lock the inner divider frame (25) into the inner (screen) tray (18). See, for example, Figure 4, the inner divider frame (25) may include a pair of relatively small circular locking buttons or pins (55). The outer peripheral wall (50) of the inner (filter) tray (18) includes complementary holes (56) adapted to receive the locking pins (55). The pins (55) are aligned with the corresponding holes (56). At this point, the pins (55) fit into the holes (56), thereby locking the divider frame (25) and the inner (filter) tray (18) in place. In addition, as Figure 5 As shown, the inner divider frame (25) may include a beveled lower edge (58). These beveled portions (58) help prevent seeds from getting stuck in the bottom corners of the divider frame (25).

[0041] As described above, the internal divider frame (25) can be thought of as having a pie-like structure with individual wedge-shaped "cuts" (compartments) (30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, and 44). One or more seeds can be placed in each compartment. In this way, the seeds can be managed and the individual compartments can protect the seeds. The independent compartments keep the seeds separate and prevent them from mixing with each other. In a preferred embodiment, as shown in FIG. Figure 5 As shown, the peripheral wall (48) of the separator frame (25) includes a columnar member (60) that protrudes inwardly and enters the different compartments. The top surfaces of these compartment columns (60) can be marked accordingly so that the seeds are not misplaced. For example, the columns (60) can be marked with different symbols, logos, names, initials, letters, numbers and other markings. The first compartment column (60) can be marked with a first letter, the second compartment column (60) with a second letter, the third compartment column (60) with a third letter, and so on.

[0042] If desired, the inner divider frame (25) can be removed from the inner (screen) tray (18). For example, refer again to Figure 1B , the inner divider frame (25) can be removed so that the tray assembly includes only the inner tray (18) and the outer tray (12). In practice, to remove the divider frame (25), the user grasps the hinge connector (46) with his / her thumb and index finger and squeezes the hinge connector (46). This squeezing action releases the divider frame (25). The user then pulls the divider frame (25) upward; and removes the frame from the inner (filter) tray (18).

[0043] Go to Figure 6, the inner (mesh) tray (18) preferably includes protruding foot portions (62) which help provide additional stability. The protruding feet (62) also allow a greater amount of water to collect below the bottom of the tray (18). The amount of air generated below the inner (mesh) tray (18) is also increased. This increased amount of water helps to provide a greater degree of water soaking of the seeds. Better air circulation also helps with seed germination. If desired, silica or humidity packs commonly used for seed storage can be placed below the inner (mesh) tray (18). In addition, if Figure 7 As shown, the lid (70) of the tray assembly can be flipped over and placed underneath the inner (screen) tray (18) to collect any excess water that drains off.

[0044] The individual tray assemblies and the covers (70) above and bases (72) below them are also configured so that they can be stacked on top of each other. The covers (70) can be printed with symbols, logos, names, initials, letters, numbers and other markings. For example, Figure 8 , Fig. 9 and Fig.10 As shown, the cover (70) and the base may include raised decorative portions (74) extending upward. The raised decorative portions (74) form a geometric pattern. Channels or grooves are provided between the raised decorative portions (74). Fig.10 In one example, a first pallet assembly (10) is placed on the ground. A second pallet assembly (10) is then placed on top of the first pallet. Finally, a third pallet assembly (10) is placed on top of the second pallet. In this arrangement, the bottom edge portion (base) (72) of the second pallet (10) engages and fits into a recessed area in the top cover (70) of the first pallet (10). Then, the bottom edge portion (74) (base) of the third pallet engages and fits into a recessed area (74) in the top cover of the second pallet. In this way, multiple pallets (10) can be securely stacked on top of each other. This stacking feature facilitates the handling and storage of pallets (10).

[0045] Separator

[0046] The separators (partitions) (28) that separate the interior of the tray into different compartments (30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42 and 44) ​​are an advantageous feature of the present invention. In conventional trays that do not include such separators or internal compartments, seeds may be mixed with each other. This may cause seeds to be misplaced and misidentified. Compared to such conventional systems, the compartments of the tray assembly of the present invention keep the seeds separated and prevent them from mixing with each other. As described above, the individual compartments can be marked with symbols, letters, numbers, etc. so that the seeds are not misplaced. The compartments can be marked with protruding columns (60) or any other suitable manner. It should be appreciated that the number of separators and compartments can vary without departing from the scope of the present invention. That is, the tray can include any desired number of separators, for example, one, two, three, four, five, six, etc. Different internal separator frames (25) can be inserted into the internal tray (18) to divide the internal tray into the desired number of compartments. In this way, the tray assembly can be customized to include a preferred plurality of separators and a plurality of compartments.

[0047] As described above, the internal divider frame (25) can be assembled into the internal (filter) tray (18). Therefore, in this example, the divider (28) is fixed in place. The compartments (30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42 and 44) ​​are of fixed size and their size cannot be modified. However, in other embodiments, the internal divider frame (25) is not used. Instead, independent dividers (partitions) can be inserted into the internal (filter) tray (18). Each of these separate and different dividers can be removed individually. Multiple individual dividers can be removed so that the size of the compartments can be changed. Individual dividers can be added or removed as needed to expand or reduce the size of each compartment.

[0048] Although the inner tray (18) is primarily described and illustrated herein as having eight separate compartments (30, 32, 34, 36, 38, 40, 42, and 44), it should be appreciated that the number, size, and shape of the compartments are for illustration purposes only. The number, size, and shape of the compartments may vary without departing from the scope of the present invention. For example, in Figure 3 In the embodiment of the present invention, the tray is shown as having six compartments. In other embodiments, the tray may contain only two, three, four or five compartments.

[0049] In one embodiment, the seeds are placed in a compartment. As further described below and as Fig.12As shown, tweezers (75) with cupped ends (77) can be used to place seeds in compartments. The outer container tray (12) is filled with water, preferably distilled water, and the inner divider frame (25) / inner (screen) tray (18) subassembly containing seeds in the compartment is slowly placed in the outer container tray (12). In this step, the seeds are allowed to float and / or placed in humid air. The seeds are located on the bottom plate (19) of the inner (screen) tray (18) containing relatively small perforations (21). The seeds are allowed to float in the water for about 18 to about 24 hours. Then, drain. The drain can be drained by removing the side drain plug of the tray. Tweezers (77) can be used to remove the plug by inserting the protruding end (79) into the plug and turning it counterclockwise. After this step, a small layer of clean water covering the bottom plate is added to the outer container tray (12). By heating, this water produces humid air in the tray. The moisture content increases. The lid (70) of the tray helps to trap heat and moisture and keep the seeds from drying out for about 3 to about 5 days. In addition, the lid (70) helps prevent light from penetrating the tray assembly (10) and reaching the seeds. The covered tray assembly can be placed on a heating mat. In a preferred embodiment, the temperature of the heating mat is maintained at about 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit for about 18 to about 24 hours. Other steps in the seed germination and growth process will be described in further detail below.

[0050] The cover (70) and tray assembly (10) are complementary to each other and preferably have a locking mechanism to hold the cover (70) in place. For example, the cover (70) can be snap-fitted into the tray assembly (10) using a ball and socket locking mechanism. In this way, the cover is tightly secured to the tray assembly; the seeds / seedlings are kept in a dark and controlled environment. A tightly sealed cover has several benefits. For example, the cover prevents light from being transmitted into the tray. The cover helps to lock in heat and humidity, promoting seed germination. The high precision tolerances of the cover and tray help keep the cover sealed in place. This tight seal helps prevent seeds from spilling out of the tray, even if the tray is tilted or dropped.

[0051] Rectangular tray

[0052] Go to Fig.11In other embodiments, the outer container pallet (76) can have a rectangular shape. Four separate inner pallets (78) can fit into the outer rectangular pallet (76). Each of the four separate pallets (78) has four separate compartments or compartments (80). The four inner pallets (78) can interlock with each other so that the pallets remain in place. Any suitable locking mechanism can be used to lock the pallets together. For example, as described above, the pallet can include a male member (82) that fits into a recess (84) of an adjacent pallet so that the male member interlocks with the recess. The male member (82) and the recess (84) are complementary and interlock with each other. As Fig.11 As shown, in this example, the male member has a V-shaped structure (82), and the complementary recess is also V-shaped (84). In this way, the four inner trays (78) are tightly fixed to each other. The inner trays (78) are locked in place using this locking mechanism. In addition, the outer corners of the outer trays (76) and the inner trays (78) are preferably rounded. Fig.11 In the embodiment of the present invention, these fillets are marked with the letters "A", "F", "P" and "K". The inner trays (78) are configured so that they can only be installed in one position in the outer tray (76). The floors and walls of the individual chambers 80 may have small holes 81 so that air and water can pass between the chambers. As described above, seeds and water are placed in the chambers (80) to produce and support seed germination.

[0053] One or more seeds can be placed in each chamber (80). As described above, in this way, the seeds can be managed and the individual chambers (80) can protect the seeds. The individual chambers (80) keep the seeds separate and prevent them from mixing with each other. Fig.11 As shown, the compartments may be marked with various symbols, logos, names, initials, letters, numbers, and other markings. The top surfaces of the compartments may be marked. For example, the first compartment (80) may be marked with the letter "A," the second compartment (80) may be marked with the letter "B," the third compartment (80) may be marked with the letter "C," and so on.

[0054] In addition, despite Fig.11 The outer pallet 76 is shown as having four separate inner pallets (78), each of which has four separate compartments (compartments) (80), but it should be appreciated that the number, size, and shape of the outer pallets, inner pallets, and compartments may vary. For example, a rectangular outer pallet (76) may contain only two inner pallets (78), and each pallet may contain only two compartments (80). In another example, the outer pallet (76) may contain four separate inner pallets (78), each of which may contain only one compartment (80).

[0055] Seed germination and growth

[0056] As described above, during the germination process, the tray assembly (10) can first be filled with water, preferably distilled water, and the seeds allowed to float in the water. The cover (70) can then be placed over the tray assembly (10) to block out light and help control humidity and heat levels. The seeds are placed in the water for approximately 18 to approximately 24 hours. If the seeds are left in the water for an extended period of time, the seeds may not receive adequate oxygen and may "drowned." Figure 7 , the lid (70) of the tray assembly can be turned over; and the inner (screen) tray (18) containing the seeds can be placed on the turned-over lid (70). In this way, any excess water from the inner (screen) tray (18) can drain and collect in the lid (70). This excess water can be discarded; and a small amount of fresh water is added back to the outer container tray (12). The inner divider frame (25) / inner (screen) tray (18) containing the seeds in the compartments can be placed back into the outer container tray (12). The lid (70) is replaced on the tray assembly (10), and the closed tray assembly can be placed on a heating mat with a temperature ranging from about 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit. As further described below, after sufficient time (typically about 3 days to about 5 days), the sprouted seedlings having a taproot of about one-quarter (1 / 4) to about one-half (1 / 2) inch in length can be removed using tweezers (75). The germinated seedlings can then be planted in trays with a good growing medium including soil and nutrients.

[0057] refer to Fig.12 , Fig.13 and Fig.14 , shows an embodiment of the tweezers tool (75) of the present invention. The tweezers can be used to clamp the seeds and place them in the germination tray. The tweezers (75) have a cup-shaped end (77). Fig.13 As shown, these cup-shaped ends (77) provide a firm and gentle grip when grabbing seeds (83) and placing them into the germination tray (85). The tweezers (75) are less rigid than traditional tweezers. The tweezers (75) of the present invention are also effective in gripping the germinating seeds and avoiding the taproot when moving the germinating seeds into the split compartment. Using these tweezers (75) helps people avoid touching the seeds with their hands. This helps prevent seed contamination.

[0058] An advantageous feature of the tweezers (75) of the present invention is that the opposing ends (79) of the tweezers can be pressed into the growing medium in the tray. The user can apply pressure on the first end (77) so that the opposing second end (79) is inserted into the growing medium. This forms a plug in the growing medium, creating a hole for the seed and a slot for the main root. As described above, the tweezers (75) can also be used to remove the drain plug on the outer tray (12).

[0059] See also Fig.15 , an interlocking split cabin (87) of the present invention is shown. The split cabin (87) includes a first frame (88), wherein the first frame (88) includes a first side wall panel (89). The first side wall panel (89) is connected to a first rear end wall panel (90) and a first front end wall panel (91). The first side wall panel (89) also includes a protruding first handle panel (92). The split cabin also includes a second frame (93), wherein the second frame (93) includes a second side wall panel (89). The second side wall panel (89) is connected to a second rear end wall panel (90) and a second front end wall panel (91). The second side wall panel (89) also includes a protruding second handle panel (92).

[0060] like Fig.15 , Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, the first and second frames (88, 93) also include lower (bottom) end panels (94). Each bottom panel (94) has a semi-circular cutout portion. The first and second rear end wall panels are connected together by hinges (95). Therefore, when the split cabin (87) is closed by pressing the first and second front end wall panels (91) toward each other so that they are in contact, the bottom panel has a complete circular cutout portion. The split cabin (87) can have elongated openings in their wall panels for air pruning. These openings help promote root growth downward through the circular cutout portion of the bottom panel. Fig.16 and Fig.17 As shown, a split compartment manipulation tool (98) may be used to manipulate the split compartments (87) in the tray (85).

[0061] Back to Fig.11Another important feature of the tray system of the present invention is the "false bottom" of the inner (screen) tray (78). That is, the floor (96) of each tray chamber (compartment) (80) can be a "false bottom". Once the seeds germinate, the false bottom (96) is removed to prevent plant roots from growing through the bottom of the screen. This step is completed before the split chamber (87) is inserted into the tray. It is very important to prevent plant roots from growing through the bottom of the screen because serious damage to these roots can be caused in an attempt to remove the split chamber / plant. Removing the false bottom (96) allows the seedlings to grow directly through the bottom of the split chamber to the bottom of the inner tray where a small amount of water is stored. Therefore, the false bottom (96) of the screen tray makes it easier to transition from the germination stage to the growth and development stage in the tray system. After removing the false bottom (96), the split chamber (87) is inserted into the tray, and the split chamber (87) is filled with a growing medium containing soil, nutrients and other additives. The tray system of the present invention provides an ideal environment for storage, seed germination and plant growth. Another advantageous feature is that once the pallet system has been used, it can be cleaned. The pallet system can withstand dirty water as well as refrigeration. Once the pallet system is clean, it can be packed away. The system's transparent ventilated dome can be flipped upside down and all components can be stored inside. The closed pallet is then mounted on top of the transparent dome and stored.

[0062] It should be understood that the tray assemblies and systems for germinating and growing plant seeds, components, structures, materials, methods, etc. of the tray assemblies described and illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of the present invention. It should be understood by those skilled in the art that various changes and additions may be made to the components, systems, components, structures, materials, methods, techniques, etc. without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. For example, referring to Fig.18 , another embodiment of the base (72) of the tray assembly (10) is shown, wherein the base includes an annular recess (100) for inserting a heating mat sensor (104). When the covered tray assembly (10) is placed on the heating mat sensor (104), humid air is generated, and this humid condition will assist the seed germination and growth process.

[0063] Go to Fig.19 , another embodiment of an outer container tray (12) is shown, wherein the interior of the container tray includes a low water fill indicator (108) and a high water fill indicator (110). The low and high water level indicators (108, 110) provide a quick and easy way to know the amount of water in the container tray (12) to be collected below the bottom of the tray (18). Controlling the amount of water can more effectively control the water soaking of the seeds in the tray. The low and high water level indicators (108, 110) quickly and effectively display the water level in the tray.

[0064] exist Fig. 20 In the invention, the split cabin (87) includes a first frame (88), wherein the first frame (88) includes a first side wall panel (89). The first side wall panel (89) is connected to a first rear end wall panel and a first front end wall panel (91). The first side wall panel (89) also includes a protruding first handle panel (92). The split cabin also includes a second frame (93), wherein the second frame (93) includes a second side wall panel (89). The second side wall panel (89) is connected to the second front end wall panel (91). The second side wall panel (89) also includes a protruding second handle panel (92).

[0065] like Fig. 20 As further shown, the first and second frames (88, 93) further include lower (bottom) end panels (94). Each bottom panel (94) has a semicircular cutout portion. The first and second rear end wall panels can be snap-fitted together using a ball and socket mechanism or other suitable locking device. For example, the ball portion (112) can be inserted into the socket (114). Similarly, the first and second front end wall panels (91) can be connected together by any suitable locking mechanism, including, for example Fig. 20 The ball (112) and socket (114) locking mechanism is shown. The hinge (95). Thus, when the split compartment (87) is closed by pressing the first and second front wall panels (91) and the first and second rear wall panels toward each other so that they are in contact, the bottom panel has a complete circular cutout portion. The split compartments (87) can have elongated openings in their wall panels for air pruning. These openings help promote root growth downward through the circular cutout portion of the bottom panel.

[0066] See also Fig.21 A shows another embodiment of a split compartment manipulation tool (115) that can be used to manipulate a split compartment (87) in a tray (85). The split compartment manipulation tool (115) includes an end member having an extension column (122). A first arm of the manipulation tool (115) includes a generally straight segment (120) connected to a curved segment (118), which is connected to a second generally straight segment (116) so that the arm has a Z-shaped configuration. The second arm is a mirror image of the first arm and also includes a generally straight segment (120) connected to a curved segment (118), which is connected to a second generally straight segment (116) so that the arm has an S-shaped configuration. The arms are connected at a connecting segment (124), which includes an extended handle portion (125). As shown in FIG. Fig. 22 As shown, a split compartment manipulation tool (115) may be used to manipulate the split compartments (87) in the tray (85).

[0067] The tray assembly of the present invention provides many benefits and advantages. As mentioned above, a key feature is that the tray assembly provides an effective means for marking and managing seeds and the resulting plants. Multiple seeds can be planted in the tray; and the different seeds / plants can be kept well managed. The tray assembly is effective in regulating temperature and humidity conditions. The tray assembly provides an optimal environment for germinating multiple seeds at once in a single container. The tray system provides excellent conditions from storage to germination to seedling and plant propagation.

[0068] It should be understood that the terms "first", "second", "third", "fourth", "fifth", "sixth", "seventh", "eighth", "top", "bottom", "inside", "outside", "below", "above", "up", "down", "upward", "downward", "right", "left", "front", "backward", etc. are arbitrary terms used to indicate a position of an element based on a perspective and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the present invention.

[0069] It should be understood again that the tray assemblies and systems for germinating and growing plant seeds, components, constructions, materials, methods, techniques, etc. of the tray assemblies described and illustrated herein represent only some embodiments of the present invention. The tray assemblies and systems for germinating and growing plant seeds, components, constructions, materials, methods, etc. of the tray assemblies of the present invention are not intended to be limited to the specific examples and embodiments disclosed herein. It is intended that all examples and embodiments that fall within the true spirit and scope of the present invention be covered by the appended claims.

Claims

1. A tray assembly for germination and growth of plant seeds, the assembly comprising: an outer tray having a first bottom portion and a first peripheral wall; an inner tray having a second bottom and a second peripheral wall, the inner tray being disposed in the outer tray such that the second bottom of the inner tray contacts the first bottom of the outer tray and the first peripheral wall of the inner tray contacts the second peripheral wall of the outer tray; and An internal divider frame is disposed in the internal tray, the internal divider frame having a plurality of dividers, wherein the dividers are connected to a hinge connector, the dividers forming a plurality of compartments across the frame, each compartment being configured to accommodate at least one seed for germination and growth.

2. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The bottom of the inner tray contains openings that allow air and water to pass through the bottom.

3. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The divider includes openings for allowing air and water to permeate between the compartments.

4. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The inner tray includes a set of protruding foot portions for supporting the inner tray.

5. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The outer tray includes a male member; and the inner tray includes a corresponding recess, the male member being adapted to be inserted into the recess such that the outer tray and the inner tray are locked.

6. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The male member and the recess are V-shaped.

7. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: The divider frame includes a pin and the inner tray includes a notch, the pin being adapted to be inserted into the notch such that the divider frame and inner tray are locked.

8. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: There are eight compartments on the frame.

9. The tray assembly according to claim 1, wherein: There are six compartments on the frame.

10. The tray assembly of claim 1, wherein: The compartments are marked with different labels for managing the seeds in the compartments.

11. The tray assembly according to claim 10, wherein: The compartment includes a protruding columnar member, and the columnar member is marked with different marks for managing the seeds in the compartment.

12. The tray assembly of claim 1, wherein: The tray assembly also includes a cover for placement on the divider frame.

13. The tray assembly of claim 1, wherein: The cover includes a plurality of projections with channels between the plurality of projections so that a first tray assembly can be stacked on a second tray assembly.

14. The tray assembly of claim 1, wherein: The outer tray includes an outer perimeter base located on an outer surface of the outer tray, the base protruding outwardly from the bottom of the outer tray so that a first tray assembly can be stacked on a second tray assembly.

15. The tray assembly of claim 12, wherein: The outer tray, the inner tray, the inner divider frame and the cover are circular.

16. A tray assembly for germinating and growing plant seeds, the assembly comprising: an outer tray having a first bottom portion and a first peripheral wall; and An inner tray has a second bottom and a second peripheral wall, and the inner tray is arranged in the outer tray so that the second bottom of the inner tray contacts the first bottom of the outer tray and the first peripheral wall of the inner tray contacts the second peripheral wall of the outer tray.

17. The tray assembly of claim 16, wherein: A plurality of inner trays are disposed within the outer tray, each inner tray having at least one compartment for seed germination and growth.

18. The tray assembly of claim 16, wherein: Four inner trays are arranged in the outer tray, and each inner tray contains four compartments.

19. The tray assembly of claim 18, wherein: The bottom of each compartment is removable.

20. The tray assembly of claim 18, wherein: The inner tray and the outer tray are rectangular.

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