Plant hydroponic ecological system and method based on intelligent consumables
By using functional patches and activation devices in the intelligent consumable layer, combined with a hydroponic system based on a remote database, the problems of cumbersome operation and inaccurate nutrient solution formulation in hydroponic systems have been solved, achieving stability and high efficiency in plant growth.
Patent Information
- Authority / Receiving Office
- CN · China
- Patent Type
- Applications(China)
- Current Assignee / Owner
- Filing Date
- 2025-12-31
- Publication Date
- 2026-03-17
AI Technical Summary
Existing hydroponic systems are cumbersome to operate, difficult to adapt to the specific needs of different plant species, and the nutrient solution formula cannot be accurately replenished, resulting in low nutrient utilization and a lack of local microenvironment optimization.
By employing functional patches and activation devices in the intelligent consumable layer, combined with a standard planting process database on a remote server, local intelligent adjustment of the formula and precise nutrient supply are achieved. The data acquisition module monitors and feeds back to the control module in real time, forming a closed-loop optimization.
It improves the stability and consistency of planting, reduces human error, extends the life cycle of consumables, reduces resource waste, improves plant growth efficiency and yield, and achieves long-term stable operation of the ecosystem.
Smart Images

Figure CN121667089A_ABST
Abstract
Description
Technical Field
[0001] This application relates to the fields of automated machinery and smart planting, and in particular to a hydroponic plant ecosystem and method based on smart consumables. Background Technology
[0002] With the rapid development of modern agricultural technology, hydroponics, as a soilless cultivation method, has been widely used in indoor greening, home gardening, and commercial agriculture. Hydroponic systems supply plants with the necessary nutrients through a circulating nutrient solution, avoiding problems such as soil pollution and pest and disease transmission associated with traditional soil cultivation. They offer advantages such as high efficiency, water conservation, and high space utilization. However, existing hydroponic systems still have many limitations.
[0003] Traditional hydroponic systems rely on manual preparation of nutrient solutions and environmental control. Growers need to adjust parameters such as pH, temperature, humidity, and light based on experience or generic formulas. This method is not only cumbersome but also difficult to adapt to the specific needs of different plant species. Existing hydroponic equipment is mostly standardized in design, neglecting the optimization of local microenvironments. Nutrient solution formulas are usually applied globally, failing to provide precise replenishment to plant roots or leaves, resulting in low nutrient utilization.
[0004] Therefore, hydroponics based on smart consumables has become an urgent problem to be solved.
[0005] Based on this, this application provides a plant hydroponic ecosystem and method based on smart consumables to improve the existing technology. Summary of the Invention
[0006] The purpose of this application is to provide a plant hydroponic ecosystem and method based on intelligent consumables. This system utilizes functional patches and excitation devices to achieve local intelligent adjustment of the formula, combined with a standard planting process database, to provide a precise and automated hydroponic solution, thereby improving planting efficiency and success rate.
[0007] The objective of this application is achieved through the following technical solution:
[0008] In a first aspect, this application provides a plant hydroponic ecosystem based on intelligent consumables, which utilizes consumables for intelligent hydroponic cultivation of plants. The system includes:
[0009] The hardware execution layer includes at least one hydroponic unit, which includes a planting box for containing water, an environmental control module for regulating the environment inside the box, and a data acquisition module for monitoring the status inside the planting box.
[0010] The intelligent consumable layer includes a functional patch that can intelligently adjust the formula and is placed on the inner wall of the planting box, which is in direct contact with water, and an excitation device for local stimulation of the functional patch.
[0011] The remote control layer includes a remote server and a local host computer that is communicatively connected to the remote server. The local host computer is electrically connected to the hardware execution layer and is used to receive feedback signals from the data acquisition layer to control the environmental control module. The remote server stores a database of standard planting procedures corresponding to different plant species.
[0012] The receiving and calling layer is used to receive planting instructions to match the target plant species, call the corresponding planting parameters from the standard planting process database, and execute them through the hardware execution layer controlled by the local host computer, while calling the smart consumables layer that uses the corresponding formula.
[0013] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: The hardware execution layer, with the hydroponic unit as its core, integrates the planting box, environmental control module, and data acquisition module to form a closed monitoring and regulation environment, ensuring real-time optimization of plant growth conditions. This structure avoids the cumbersome manual intervention required in traditional hydroponic systems, reduces growth abnormalities caused by human error, and improves the stability and consistency of planting. The intelligent consumables layer introduces functional patches and stimulation devices, directly embedded in the inner wall of the planting box, in direct contact with the water, to achieve precise nutrient supply and local stimulation. This design transforms consumables from passive supply to active response, dynamically adjusting the formula according to plant needs, extending the lifespan of consumables, and reducing resource waste. The environmental control layer establishes an efficient data feedback loop through a communication mechanism between a remote server and a local host computer. The standard planting process database stored on the remote server covers multiple plant species, providing standardized parameter guidance and avoiding risks caused by growers' lack of experience. The local host computer receives data acquisition feedback in real time and precisely controls environmental modules, such as temperature, light, and humidity regulation, forming a closed-loop optimization path. This remote-local collaboration not only enhances the system's scalability and facilitates large-scale deployment, but also strengthens fault diagnosis capabilities. By predicting potential problems through data analysis, it allows for timely intervention to maintain ecological balance. The receiving and calling layer serves as the system entry point, automatically matching plant species in response to planting instructions, retrieving corresponding parameters from the database, and simultaneously activating the intelligent consumable layer. This automated process simplifies the operational threshold, enabling even beginners to easily manage complex hydroponic environments. Overall, this system promotes the intelligent transformation of hydroponic ecosystems, significantly improving plant growth efficiency, yield, and quality, while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. Through the integration of intelligent consumables, the system achieves precise nutrient delivery and personalized environmental control, constructing an efficient and sustainable plant cultivation platform, ultimately enabling the long-term stable operation of the ecosystem.
[0014] In some optional implementations, the data acquisition module is used to dynamically acquire planting data, which includes image information of the target plant in the planting box, image information of the water body in the planting box, temperature information in the planting box, light information in the planting box, and functional patch consumption information.
[0015] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: This claim focuses on the dynamic monitoring function of the data acquisition module. By collecting multi-dimensional planting data, including images of the target plant, water bodies, temperature, light intensity, and functional patch consumption information, a comprehensive environmental perception system is constructed. This multi-modal data acquisition method transcends the limitations of single-parameter monitoring, providing a three-dimensional portrait of the plant's growth status and helping the system to capture subtle changes in plant development in a timely manner. For example, image information can intuitively reflect visual indicators such as plant leaf morphology and water turbidity. Combined with temperature and light intensity data, it forms a basis for comprehensive analysis, avoiding the accumulation of hidden problems such as root hypoxia or uneven light exposure. Data is fed back to the environmental control layer in real time, enabling predictive adjustments, such as optimizing lighting strategies based on light intensity data or detecting pollutant accumulation through water body images to prevent water quality degradation. The inclusion of functional patch consumption information further improves the closed-loop management of consumables, allowing the system to assess nutrient release efficiency based on usage records, optimize subsequent formula calls, and avoid over- or under-supply. From an ecological perspective, this design promotes the sustainability of the hydroponic system. Through continuous data accumulation, the system can generate historical growth records, supporting algorithm iteration and improving its adaptability to different plants. This information-driven approach reduces blind experimentation, saves resources, and provides users with visual reports to facilitate decision-making. Compared to traditional hydroponics, the integration of this module makes the system more intelligently diagnostic, capable of simulating natural ecological dynamics and maintaining a balance between water and plants.
[0016] In some alternative embodiments, the functional patch comprises a biodegradable hydrogel matrix with a porous structure, wherein biodegradable microcapsules coated with functional components and trace elements are loaded in the hydrogel matrix; the functional components include phytonutrients, microbial agents and water treatment agents, and the trace elements include metal ions.
[0017] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: The functional patch uses a porous, biodegradable hydrogel matrix as a carrier to load microcapsules encapsulating functional components and trace elements. The functional components include plant nutrients, microbial agents, and water treatment agents, while the trace elements include metal ions. This composite design achieves slow release and multifunctional integration of consumables, avoiding the volatility of traditional one-time nutrient solution additions and ensuring uniform and stable nutrient distribution in the water. The porosity of the hydrogel promotes water molecule penetration and component diffusion, while its biodegradability aligns with eco-friendly principles, reducing waste accumulation and supporting recycling. In a hydroponic environment, this patch is placed directly on the inner wall of the container, maximizing the contact area with water and achieving precise localized supply. The microcapsule structure protects sensitive components such as microbial agents from early degradation, and the gradual release enhances the absorption efficiency of plant roots, promotes the colonization of beneficial bacteria, and improves the microecological balance of the water. The incorporation of water treatment agents neutralizes harmful substances and maintains pH stability, while metal ions supplement trace requirements, supporting enzymatic reactions and photosynthesis. This multi-layered load design transforms consumables from a single nutrient source to a comprehensive ecological regulator, enhancing the system's self-cleaning ability and resilience. Beneficial effects are also reflected in ease of operation. The patches are easy to install and replace, requiring no complex equipment and lowering the maintenance threshold. Simultaneously, their degradation process synchronizes with the plant's growth cycle, reducing the need for frequent intervention. From a sustainability perspective, this innovation reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, promoting green hydroponics practices. Through localized stimulation of the excitation device, the patches can respond to external signals to accelerate release, adapting to changes in growth stages, such as nutrient enhancement during the growth period or balanced regulation during maturity.
[0018] In some optional embodiments, the biodegradable microcapsules can release plant nutrients, microbial agents, and water treatment agents into the water body according to a preset release curve and a preset release cycle.
[0019] The beneficial effects of this technology are as follows: The controlled release mechanism of the biodegradable microcapsules gradually introduces plant nutrients, microbial agents, and water treatment agents into the water according to a preset release curve and cycle. This intelligent release strategy simulates the natural nutrient cycle, avoiding the waste or toxicity accumulation caused by nutrient peak-valley fluctuations in traditional hydroponics. It ensures that the water concentration is always within the optimal absorption window for plants, promoting healthy root development and overall metabolic balance. The preset curve design of the microcapsules allows for customized release rhythms according to plant growth stages, such as slow release in the early stages to establish a microbial community foundation, and accelerated release in the later stages to support fruit enlargement. This periodic control enhances the system's adaptability, responding to environmental changes such as temperature fluctuations or light adjustments, and maintaining ecological stability. The gradual release of microbial agents promotes the reproduction of beneficial bacteria, inhibits pathogens, and builds a self-sustaining aquatic microbial community; the water treatment agent is activated periodically to remove organic residues and prevent eutrophication. Precise nutrient delivery reduces over-application, optimizes resource utilization, and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
[0020] In some alternative embodiments, the biodegradable hydrogel matrix is further loaded with a visual indicator whose degradation rate is correlated with that of the hydrogel matrix, for use in indicating the remaining effective lifespan of the functional patch through color changes.
[0021] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: This claim introduces a visual indicator loaded onto a biodegradable hydrogel matrix, whose degradation rate is synchronized with the matrix. Color changes indicate the remaining effective lifespan of the functional patch. This intuitive feedback mechanism solves the problem of opaque status in traditional consumables, allowing users to assess replacement timing without specialized tools, thus avoiding planting interruptions or nutrient imbalances caused by performance degradation. The correlated degradation design of the indicator ensures that the color gradient matches the actual lifespan; for example, an initial bright hue gradually transitions to a warning color, reflecting matrix integrity and remaining components. This visualization strategy simplifies the maintenance process, making it particularly suitable for home or small-scale hydroponic settings, reducing the burden on users. Simultaneously, it enhances system reliability by predicting consumable failure through color monitoring, allowing for timely intervention to maintain water stability and promote continuous plant growth.
[0022] In some alternative implementations, the system further includes a harvesting and packaging module for controlling a robotic arm to perform harvesting and packaging actions on the target plant according to harvesting instructions.
[0023] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: By integrating harvesting and packaging modules, it achieves fully automated closed-loop management of the entire process from planting to harvesting and packaging. The introduction of robotic arms enables precise execution of harvesting and packaging actions according to instructions, significantly reducing the intensity of manual labor and time costs during the harvesting stage, and improving production efficiency. Automated harvesting reduces physical damage to plants caused by human operation, helping to maintain the appearance quality and freshness of agricultural products. The connection between this module and the system's intelligent monitoring can automatically trigger operations at the optimal harvesting time, ensuring that agricultural products are processed at ideal maturity, thereby optimizing the market value of the final product. Overall, this design promotes the development of hydroponic production towards highly automated and continuous operations, improving the intelligence level and economic benefits of the entire production chain.
[0024] Secondly, this application provides a hydroponic plant cultivation method based on smart consumables, the method comprising:
[0025] The receiving and calling layer receives planting instructions, determines the target plant species, and retrieves the standard planting parameter set corresponding to the target plant species from the standard planting process database. The parameter set includes environmental parameters, nutrient formula identifiers, and growth cycle nodes.
[0026] According to the nutrient formula label, deploy the corresponding formula functional patches in the planting box;
[0027] The data acquisition module is activated to collect planting data in real time, and the local host computer compares the planting data with the standard planting parameter set.
[0028] When the planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host computer generates control instructions to adjust the working status of the environmental control module and the intelligent consumables layer so that the planting data returns to the standard range.
[0029] When the target plant is detected to have reached a growth cycle node, the harvesting and packaging module is triggered to harvest and package the target plant.
[0030] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: By receiving planting instructions, calling standard parameters, deploying intelligent consumables, and implementing real-time monitoring, comparison, and closed-loop control, standardized and adaptive management of hydroponics is achieved. This method dynamically combines a pre-set standardized planting process with real-time environmental data, ensuring the scientific nature and repeatability of planting operations. By comparing planting data with standard parameter sets and automatically generating control instructions, the system can promptly correct environmental deviations and maintain optimal conditions for plant growth. The use of intelligent consumables allows for flexible adjustment of nutrient supply according to control needs, enhancing the system's responsiveness. Automatic triggering of the harvesting process further integrates full-process automation, significantly improving the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of hydroponic management.
[0031] In some optional implementations, when the planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host computer generates control commands to adjust the working status of the environmental control module and the intelligent consumables layer to bring the planting data back to the standard range, including:
[0032] The local host computer is used to compare the planting data with the standard planting parameter set to identify deviations and deviation values.
[0033] Based on a preset control strategy library, at least one first control instruction is matched for each deviation item. The control strategy library defines the mapping relationship between different deviation items and corresponding control methods.
[0034] Based on the first control command, the environmental control module is used to adjust at least one of the following: light intensity, light duration, or water temperature, water pH value, and dissolved oxygen concentration.
[0035] If the deviation does not return to the standard range within a preset monitoring period after the execution of the first control command, the local host computer generates a second control command.
[0036] Based on the second control command, the functional patch is locally stimulated using an excitation device to change the release rate of the biodegradable microcapsules.
[0037] The beneficial effects of this technical solution are as follows: A tiered control strategy enhances the intelligence and effectiveness of the system in responding to growth deviations. Initial correction is achieved through adjustments to environmental parameters. If the desired results are not met, the release rate of intelligent consumables is further stimulated. This step-by-step approach optimizes the utilization sequence of control resources, prioritizing lower-energy-consumption environmental regulation and only activating consumable control when necessary, thus promoting energy conservation and cost control. A pre-set control strategy library ensures that different deviations are addressed specifically, improving the accuracy and efficiency of control decisions. The introduction of a monitoring cycle for effect evaluation forms a complete feedback loop of "monitoring-decision-execution-re-evaluation," enhancing the reliability and stability of the system's adaptive adjustment and thus more effectively ensuring the continuous optimization of the plant growth environment.
[0038] Thirdly, this application provides an electronic device, which includes a memory and a processor, wherein the memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of any of the above methods.
[0039] Fourthly, this application provides a chip that stores a computer program, which, when executed by a processor, implements the steps of any of the above methods. Attached Figure Description
[0040] The present application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and embodiments.
[0041] Figure 1 This illustration shows a structural block diagram of a plant hydroponic ecosystem based on smart consumables provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0042] Figure 2 This illustration shows a flowchart of a hydroponic plant cultivation method based on smart consumables provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0043] Figure 3 A structural framework diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0044] Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a program product provided in an embodiment of this application is shown. Detailed Implementation
[0045] The embodiments of this application will be further described below with reference to the accompanying drawings and specific implementation methods. It should be noted that, without conflict, the various embodiments or technical features described below can be arbitrarily combined to form new implementation methods.
[0046] In the embodiments of this application, "at least one" refers to one or more, and "more than one" refers to two or more. "And / or" describes the relationship between related objects, indicating that three relationships can exist. For example, A and / or B can represent: A alone, A and B simultaneously, or B alone, where A and B can be singular or plural. The character " / " generally indicates that the preceding and following related objects are in an "or" relationship. "At least one of the following" or similar expressions refer to any combination of these items, including any combination of single or plural items. For example, at least one of a, b, or c can represent: a, b, c, a and b, a and c, b and c, a and b and c, where a, b, and c can be single or multiple. It is worth noting that "at least one" can also be interpreted as "one or more".
[0047] It should also be noted that, in the embodiments of this application, the words "exemplary" or "for example" are used to indicate that they are examples, illustrations, or descriptions. Any implementation or design scheme described as "exemplary" or "for example" in the embodiments of this application should not be construed as being more preferred or advantageous than other implementations or design schemes. Specifically, the use of words such as "exemplary" or "for example" is intended to present the relevant concepts in a specific manner.
[0048] System Implementation Examples
[0049] See Figure 1 , Figure 1 This illustration shows a structural diagram of a plant hydroponic ecosystem based on smart consumables provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0050] This application provides a plant hydroponic ecosystem based on intelligent consumables, which utilizes consumables for intelligent hydroponic cultivation of plants. The system includes:
[0051] The hardware execution layer includes at least one hydroponic unit, which includes a planting box for containing water, an environmental control module for regulating the environment inside the box, and a data acquisition module for monitoring the status inside the planting box.
[0052] The intelligent consumable layer includes a functional patch that can intelligently adjust the formula and is placed on the inner wall of the planting box, which is in direct contact with water, and an excitation device for local stimulation of the functional patch.
[0053] The remote control layer includes a remote server and a local host computer that is communicatively connected to the remote server. The local host computer is electrically connected to the hardware execution layer and is used to receive feedback signals from the data acquisition layer to control the environmental control module. The remote server stores a database of standard planting procedures corresponding to different plant species.
[0054] The receiving and calling layer is used to receive planting instructions to match the target plant species, call the corresponding planting parameters from the standard planting process database, and execute them through the hardware execution layer controlled by the local host computer, while calling the smart consumables layer that uses the corresponding formula.
[0055] Therefore, the hardware execution layer, with the hydroponic unit at its core, integrates the planting box, environmental control module, and data acquisition module to form a closed monitoring and regulation environment, ensuring real-time optimization of plant growth conditions. This structure avoids the cumbersome manual intervention required in traditional hydroponic systems, reduces growth abnormalities caused by human error, and improves the stability and consistency of planting.
[0056] The intelligent consumables layer incorporates functional patches and activation devices, directly embedded in the inner wall of the planting box, allowing for direct contact with water and precise nutrient supply and localized stimulation. This design transforms consumables from passive supply to active response, dynamically adjusting the formula according to plant needs, extending the consumables' lifespan, and reducing resource waste. The environmental control layer establishes an efficient data feedback loop through a communication mechanism between a remote server and a local host computer.
[0057] The remote server stores a standardized planting process database covering multiple plant species, providing standardized parameter guidance and avoiding risks arising from growers' lack of experience. The local host computer receives real-time data collection feedback and precisely controls environmental modules, such as temperature, light, and humidity regulation, forming a closed-loop optimization path. This remote-local collaboration not only improves the system's scalability, facilitating large-scale deployment, but also enhances fault diagnosis capabilities, predicting potential problems through data analysis and intervening promptly to maintain ecological balance.
[0058] The receiving and calling layer serves as the system entry point, automatically matching plant species in response to planting instructions, retrieving corresponding parameters from the database, and simultaneously activating the intelligent consumable layer. This automated process simplifies the operational threshold, allowing even beginners to easily manage complex hydroponic environments. Overall, this system promotes the intelligent transformation of hydroponic ecosystems, significantly improving plant growth efficiency, yield, and quality, while reducing energy consumption and maintenance costs. Through the integration of intelligent consumables, the system achieves precise nutrient delivery and personalized environmental control, constructing an efficient and sustainable plant cultivation platform, ultimately enabling the long-term stable operation of the ecosystem.
[0059] In some optional implementations, the data acquisition module is used to dynamically acquire planting data, which includes image information of the target plant in the planting box, image information of the water body in the planting box, temperature information in the planting box, light information in the planting box, and functional patch consumption information.
[0060] Therefore, this claim focuses on the dynamic monitoring function of the data acquisition module. By collecting multi-dimensional planting data, including images of target plants, water bodies, temperature, light intensity, and functional patch consumption information, a comprehensive environmental perception system is constructed. This multi-modal data acquisition method transcends the limitations of single-parameter monitoring, providing a three-dimensional portrait of the plant's growth status and helping the system to promptly capture subtle changes in plant development. For example, image information can intuitively reflect visual indicators such as plant leaf morphology and water turbidity. Combined with temperature and light intensity data, it forms a basis for comprehensive analysis, avoiding the accumulation of hidden problems such as root hypoxia or uneven light exposure.
[0061] Data is fed back to the environmental control layer in real time, enabling predictive adjustments. For example, lighting strategies can be optimized based on light data, or pollutant accumulation can be detected through water images to prevent water quality degradation. The inclusion of functional patch consumption information further improves the consumable management loop, allowing the system to assess nutrient release efficiency based on usage records, optimize subsequent formula calls, and avoid over- or under-supply. From an ecological perspective, this design promotes the sustainability of the hydroponic system. Through continuous data accumulation, the system can generate historical growth profiles, support algorithm iteration, and improve adaptability to different plants.
[0062] This information-driven approach reduces blind experimentation, saves resources, and provides users with visual reports to facilitate decision-making. Compared to traditional hydroponics, the integration of this module makes the system more intelligently diagnostic, capable of simulating natural ecological dynamics and maintaining a balance between water and plants.
[0063] In some alternative embodiments, the functional patch comprises a biodegradable hydrogel matrix with a porous structure, wherein biodegradable microcapsules coated with functional components and trace elements are loaded in the hydrogel matrix; the functional components include phytonutrients, microbial agents and water treatment agents, and the trace elements include metal ions.
[0064] Therefore, the functional patch uses a porous, biodegradable hydrogel matrix as a carrier to load microcapsules containing functional components and trace elements. The functional components include phytonutrients, microbial agents, and water treatment agents, while the trace elements include metal ions. This composite design achieves slow release and multifunctional integration of the consumable, avoiding the fluctuations associated with traditional one-time nutrient solution additions and ensuring uniform and stable nutrient distribution in the water.
[0065] The porosity of hydrogels promotes water molecule penetration and component diffusion, while their biodegradability aligns with eco-friendly principles, reducing waste accumulation and supporting recycling. In hydroponic environments, these patches are placed directly on the inner wall of the container, maximizing water contact and achieving precise localized supply. The microcapsule-encapsulated structure protects sensitive components such as microbial agents from early degradation, while gradual release enhances root absorption efficiency, promotes beneficial bacterial colonization, and improves the microecological balance of the aquatic body. The incorporation of water treatment agents neutralizes harmful substances, maintains pH stability, and metal ions supplement trace requirements, supporting enzymatic reactions and photosynthesis. This multi-layered loading design transforms consumables from a single nutrient source into a comprehensive ecological regulator, enhancing the system's self-cleaning ability and resilience.
[0066] The beneficial effects are also reflected in ease of operation. The patches are easy to install and replace, requiring no complex equipment and lowering the maintenance threshold. Simultaneously, their degradation process is synchronized with the plant's growth cycle, reducing the need for frequent interventions. From a sustainability perspective, this innovation reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers, promoting green hydroponics practices. Through localized stimulation from the excitation device, the patches can respond to external signals to accelerate release, adapting to changes in growth stages, such as nutrient enhancement during the growth period or balanced regulation during maturity.
[0067] In some optional embodiments, the biodegradable microcapsules can release plant nutrients, microbial agents, and water treatment agents into the water body according to a preset release curve and a preset release cycle.
[0068] Therefore, the controlled release mechanism of biodegradable microcapsules gradually introduces plant nutrients, microbial agents, and water treatment agents into the water according to a preset release curve and cycle. This intelligent release strategy simulates the natural nutrient cycle, avoiding the waste or toxicity accumulation caused by nutrient peak-valley fluctuations in traditional hydroponics, ensuring that the water concentration is always within the optimal absorption window for plants, and promoting healthy root development and overall metabolic balance.
[0069] The pre-designed release curves of the microcapsules allow for customized release rhythms based on plant growth stages, such as slow initial release to establish a microbial community base, followed by accelerated release to support fruit enlargement. This periodic control enhances the system's adaptability, enabling it to respond to environmental changes such as temperature fluctuations or light adjustments and maintain ecological stability.
[0070] The gradual release of microbial inoculants promotes the reproduction of beneficial bacteria, inhibits pathogens, and builds a self-sustaining aquatic microbial community; water treatment agents are activated periodically to remove organic residues and prevent eutrophication. Precise nutrient delivery reduces over-application, optimizes resource utilization, and supports sustainable agricultural practices.
[0071] In some alternative embodiments, the biodegradable hydrogel matrix is further loaded with a visual indicator whose degradation rate is correlated with that of the hydrogel matrix, for use in indicating the remaining effective lifespan of the functional patch through color changes.
[0072] Therefore, this claim introduces a visual indicator loaded onto a biodegradable hydrogel matrix, whose degradation rate is synchronized with the matrix, indicating the remaining effective lifespan of the functional patch through color changes. This intuitive feedback mechanism solves the problem of opaque status in traditional consumables, allowing users to assess replacement timing without specialized tools, thus avoiding interruptions in implantation or nutrient imbalances caused by performance degradation.
[0073] The indicator's correlated degradation design ensures that the color gradation matches the actual lifespan; for example, an initial vibrant hue gradually transitions to a warning color, reflecting substrate integrity and remaining components. This visualization strategy simplifies maintenance procedures, making it particularly suitable for home or small-scale hydroponic settings and reducing the burden on users. Simultaneously, it enhances system reliability by predicting consumable failure through color monitoring, allowing for timely intervention to maintain water stability and promote continuous plant growth.
[0074] In some alternative implementations, the system further includes a harvesting and packaging module for controlling a robotic arm to perform harvesting and packaging actions on the target plant according to harvesting instructions.
[0075] Thus, by integrating harvesting and packaging modules, a fully automated closed-loop management system was achieved, encompassing the entire process from planting to harvesting and packaging. The introduction of robotic arms enables precise execution of harvesting and packaging actions based on instructions, significantly reducing the intensity of manual labor and time costs during the harvesting stage, and improving production efficiency.
[0076] Automated harvesting reduces physical damage to plants caused by human intervention, helping to maintain the appearance and freshness of agricultural products. The module's integration with the system's intelligent monitoring allows for automatic triggering of harvesting at the optimal time, ensuring that agricultural products are processed at ideal maturity, thereby optimizing the market value of the final product. Overall, this design promotes the development of hydroponic production towards highly automated and continuous operations, enhancing the intelligence level and economic efficiency of the entire production chain.
[0077] Method Implementation Examples
[0078] See Figure 2 , Figure 2 This illustration shows a flowchart of a hydroponic plant cultivation method based on smart consumables provided in an embodiment of this application.
[0079] Secondly, this application provides a hydroponic plant cultivation method based on smart consumables, the method comprising:
[0080] Step S101: Receive planting instructions using the receiving and calling layer, determine the target plant species, and retrieve the standard planting parameter set corresponding to the target plant species from the standard planting process database. The parameter set includes environmental parameters, nutrient formula identifiers, and growth cycle nodes.
[0081] Step S102: Deploy the corresponding formula functional patches in the planting box according to the nutrient formula label;
[0082] Step S103: Start the data acquisition module to collect planting data in real time, and compare the planting data with the standard planting parameter set by the local host computer;
[0083] Step S104: When the planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host computer generates control instructions to adjust the working status of the environmental control module and the intelligent consumable layer so that the planting data returns to the standard range.
[0084] Step S105: When the target plant is detected to have reached a growth cycle node, the harvesting and packaging module is triggered to harvest and package the target plant.
[0085] Thus, by receiving planting instructions, calling standard parameters, deploying intelligent consumables, and implementing real-time monitoring, comparison, and closed-loop control, standardized and adaptive management of hydroponics is achieved. This method dynamically combines a pre-set standardized planting process with real-time environmental data, ensuring the scientific nature and repeatability of planting operations. By comparing planting data with the standard parameter set and automatically generating control instructions, the system can promptly correct environmental deviations and maintain optimal conditions for plant growth.
[0086] The intelligent consumable layer allows for flexible adjustment of nutrient supply according to regulatory needs, enhancing the system's responsiveness. Automatic triggering of the harvesting process further streamlines the entire production process, significantly improving the accuracy, efficiency, and consistency of hydroponic management.
[0087] In one optional embodiment, firstly, the receiving and invoking layer receives a planting instruction input by the user through a mobile application, specifying lettuce as the target plant. The receiving and invoking layer parses the instruction, confirms that the target plant is lettuce, and retrieves the corresponding standard planting parameter set from the standard planting process database on a remote server. This parameter set includes environmental parameters (such as suitable light intensity range, temperature range, and humidity level), nutrient formula identifiers (corresponding to the nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium balance formula required for lettuce growth), and growth cycle nodes (such as germination period, vegetative growth period, and maturity period).
[0088] Next, based on the retrieved nutrient formula label, functional patches corresponding to the formula are deployed in the planting box. Specifically, pre-prepared functional patches are fixed to the inner wall of the planting box. These patches contain nutrients and growth promoters encapsulated in biodegradable microcapsules, which directly contact the water to slowly release the required elements. The deployment process includes cleaning the inner wall of the planting box, evenly attaching multiple functional patches, and ensuring that their position covers the plant root zone to achieve localized nutrient supply.
[0089] Subsequently, the data acquisition module is activated for real-time monitoring. This module, integrated into the hydroponic unit, includes temperature, pH, light, and dissolved oxygen sensors. It collects planting data within the growing box, such as water temperature, pH value, dissolved oxygen level, and plant growth indicators (e.g., leaf color and root length). The collected data is wirelessly transmitted to a local host computer, which compares this real-time planting data with a standard set of planting parameters to analyze the degree of deviation. For example, if the water pH value exceeds the standard range or insufficient light leads to delayed plant growth, the system will detect this deviation.
[0090] When planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host computer generates control commands to adjust the working status of the environmental control module and the intelligent consumable layer. Specific adjustments include using the environmental control module to change the brightness of the lighting fixtures or the operation of the water pumps to optimize water circulation, thereby gradually bringing the planting data back to the standard range. Simultaneously, the intelligent consumable layer responds to the commands, fine-tuning the release mechanism of the functional patches to ensure that nutrient supply matches the plant's needs.
[0091] Finally, when the data acquisition module detects that the target plant has reached a growth cycle milestone (such as the end of the vegetative growth period or the plant leaves reaching a preset maturity standard), it triggers the harvesting and packaging module. This module includes a robotic arm and packaging device, which automatically removes the mature plant from the planting box, cleans, trims, and vacuum-packs it, completing the entire hydroponic cycle.
[0092] In some optional implementations, when the planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host computer generates control commands to adjust the working status of the environmental control module and the intelligent consumables layer to bring the planting data back to the standard range, including:
[0093] The local host computer is used to compare the planting data with the standard planting parameter set to identify deviations and deviation values.
[0094] Based on a preset control strategy library, at least one first control instruction is matched for each deviation item. The control strategy library defines the mapping relationship between different deviation items and corresponding control methods.
[0095] Based on the first control command, the environmental control module is used to adjust at least one of the following: light intensity, light duration, or water temperature, water pH value, and dissolved oxygen concentration.
[0096] If the deviation does not return to the standard range within a preset monitoring period after the execution of the first control command, the local host computer generates a second control command.
[0097] Based on the second control command, the functional patch is locally stimulated using an excitation device to change the release rate of the biodegradable microcapsules.
[0098] Therefore, the hierarchical control strategy enhances the intelligence and effectiveness of the system in responding to growth deviations. Initial correction is achieved through adjustments to environmental parameters; if the desired results are not met, the release rate of intelligent consumables is further stimulated. This step-by-step approach optimizes the utilization sequence of control resources, prioritizing lower-energy-consumption environmental regulation and only initiating consumable regulation when necessary, thus promoting energy conservation and cost control.
[0099] The pre-defined regulatory strategy library ensures that different deviations can be addressed specifically, improving the accuracy and efficiency of regulatory decisions. The introduction of monitoring cycles for effect evaluation forms a complete feedback loop of "monitoring-decision-execution-re-evaluation," enhancing the reliability and stability of the system's adaptive adjustments and thus more effectively ensuring the continuous optimization of the plant growth environment.
[0100] In one optional embodiment, during the rapid growth period of lettuce, the local host computer discovers through real-time comparison that the "dissolved oxygen concentration in water" in the planting data is consistently lower than the lower limit required by the standard planting parameter set, forming a clear deviation, the deviation value of which is a continuous negative difference.
[0101] Subsequently, the local host computer, based on a pre-set control strategy library, matches a control strategy to the deviation of "low dissolved oxygen concentration". The strategy library defines that for this deviation, the preferred (first) control method is to enhance water aeration. Therefore, the local host computer generates a first control command, which is sent to the aeration pump in the environmental control module to control it to increase its operating power or extend its operating time, thereby increasing the dissolved oxygen content in the water.
[0102] After executing the first control command, the system enters a preset monitoring cycle (e.g., continuous monitoring for two hours). During this cycle, the data acquisition module continuously feeds back new dissolved oxygen concentration data. However, after the monitoring cycle ends, the dissolved oxygen concentration has not yet returned to the standard range. This indicates that environmental regulation (oxygenation) alone may not be sufficient to correct the deviation, or that other factors (such as a surge in microbial oxygen consumption) are continuing to have an impact.
[0103] At this point, the local host computer initiates a secondary control strategy, generating a second control command. This command targets the activation device of the intelligent consumable layer. Based on the command, the activation device applies a localized, quantitative physical stimulus (e.g., a specific frequency ultrasonic pulse) to the functional patches containing specific probiotics or enzymes deployed on the inner wall of the planting box. This stimulus acts on the biodegradable microcapsules encapsulating the active substances within the patches, accelerating the degradation of their capsule walls or the opening of their pores. This prompts the patches to release microorganisms or enzymes into the water that can decompose organic matter and reduce oxygen consumption, thus fundamentally improving the dissolved oxygen environment. Through this synergistic and sequential execution of environmental control and intelligent consumable control, the system achieves stratified and precise responses to complex planting problems.
[0104] Equipment Examples
[0105] This application also provides an electronic device, which includes a memory and a processor. The memory stores a computer program, and the processor executes the computer program to implement the steps of any of the above methods. The specific implementation method and the technical effects achieved are the same as those described in the above method embodiments, and some contents will not be repeated.
[0106] See Figure 3 , Figure 3 A structural framework diagram of an electronic device provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0107] The electronic device includes at least one memory 210, at least one processor 220, and a bus 230 connecting different platform systems.
[0108] The memory 210 may include a readable medium in the form of volatile memory, such as random access memory (RAM) 211 and / or cache memory 212, and may further include read-only memory (ROM) 213.
[0109] The memory 210 also stores a computer program, which can be executed by the processor 220 to enable the processor 220 to implement the steps of any of the above methods.
[0110] The memory 210 may also include a utility 214 having at least one program module 215, including but not limited to: an operating system, one or more application programs, other program modules, and program data, each or some combination of these examples may include an implementation of a network environment.
[0111] Accordingly, processor 220 can execute the aforementioned computer program, and can also execute utility 214.
[0112] The processor 220 may employ one or more application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs), DSPs, programmable logic devices (PLDs), complex programmable logic devices (CPLDs), field-programmable gate arrays (FPGAs), or other electronic components.
[0113] Bus 230 can be one or more of several types of bus structures, including a memory bus or memory controller, peripheral bus, graphics acceleration port, processor, or a local bus using any bus structure with multiple bus structures.
[0114] The electronic device can also communicate with one or more external devices 240, such as a keyboard, pointing device, Bluetooth device, etc., and with one or more devices capable of interacting with the electronic device, and / or with any device that enables the electronic device to communicate with one or more other computing devices (e.g., a router, modem, etc.). This communication can be performed through input / output interface 250. Furthermore, the electronic device can communicate with one or more networks (e.g., local area network (LAN), wide area network (WAN), and / or public networks, such as the Internet) via network adapter 260. Network adapter 260 can communicate with other modules of the electronic device via bus 230. It should be understood that, although not shown in the figures, other hardware and / or software modules can be used in conjunction with the electronic device, including but not limited to: microcode, device drivers, redundant processors, external disk drive arrays, RAID systems, tape drives, and data backup storage platforms.
[0115] Medium Examples
[0116] This application also provides a chip that stores a computer program. When the computer program is executed by a processor, it implements the steps of any of the above methods. The specific implementation method and the technical effects achieved are the same as those described in the above method embodiments, and some details will not be repeated.
[0117] See Figure 4 , Figure 4 A schematic diagram of the structure of a program product provided in an embodiment of this application is shown.
[0118] The program product is used to implement any of the methods described above. The program product may employ a portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM) and include program code, and may run on a terminal device, such as a personal computer. However, the program product of the present invention is not limited thereto. In embodiments of this application, the readable storage medium may be any tangible medium containing or storing a program that may be used by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The program product may employ any combination of one or more readable media. The readable medium may be a readable signal medium or a readable storage medium. A readable storage medium may be, for example, but not limited to, an electrical, magnetic, optical, electromagnetic, infrared, or semiconductor system, apparatus, or device, or any combination thereof. More specific examples of readable storage media (a non-exhaustive list) include: an electrical connection having one or more wires, a portable disk, a hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), erasable programmable read-only memory (EPROM or flash memory), optical fiber, portable compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM), optical storage device, magnetic storage device, or any suitable combination thereof.
[0119] The chip may include data signals propagated in baseband or as part of a carrier wave, carrying readable program code. Such propagated data signals may take various forms, including but not limited to electromagnetic signals, optical signals, or any suitable combination thereof. The readable storage medium may also be any readable medium capable of sending, propagating, or transmitting a program for use by or in conjunction with an instruction execution system, apparatus, or device. The program code contained on the readable storage medium may be transmitted using any suitable medium, including but not limited to wireless, wired, optical fiber, RF, or any suitable combination thereof. The program code for performing the operations of this invention may be written in any combination of one or more programming languages, including object-oriented programming languages such as Java and C++, as well as conventional procedural programming languages such as C, Python, or similar programming languages. The program code may be executed entirely on a user computing device, partially on a user device, as a standalone software package, partially on a user computing device and partially on a remote computing device, or entirely on a remote computing device or server. In cases involving remote computing devices, the remote computing devices can be connected to user computing devices via any type of network, including local area networks (LANs) or wide area networks (WANs), or they can be connected to external computing devices (e.g., via the Internet using an Internet service provider).
[0120] This application describes the invention from the perspectives of purpose, performance, progress, and novelty, and it meets the functional enhancement and use requirements emphasized by the Patent Law. The above description and drawings are merely preferred embodiments of this application and are not intended to limit this application. Therefore, all structures, devices, features, etc., that are similar to or identical to those of this application, i.e., all equivalent substitutions or modifications made in accordance with the scope of this patent application, shall fall within the scope of protection of this patent application.
Claims
1. A smart consumables based plant hydroponic ecosystem, characterized in that, The system for intelligent hydroponic cultivation of plants comprises: a hardware execution layer comprising at least one hydroponic unit, the hydroponic unit comprising a planting box for containing a water body, an environment control module for adjusting the environment in the box, and a data acquisition module for monitoring the state in the planting box; an intelligent consumable layer comprising functional patches arranged on the inner wall of the planting box and directly in contact with the water, which can intelligently adjust the formula, and an excitation device for local stimulation of the functional patches; a remote control layer comprising a remote server and a local host connected in communication with the remote server, the local host being electrically connected with the hardware execution layer for receiving feedback signals of the data acquisition layer to control the environment control module; the remote server stores a standard planting process database corresponding to different plant species; a receiving and calling layer for receiving planting instructions to match the species of target plants, calling corresponding planting parameters from the standard planting process database, and controlling the hardware execution layer to execute through the local host, while calling the intelligent consumable layer using the corresponding formula.
2. The smart consumables based plant hydroponic ecosystem of claim 1, wherein, The data acquisition module is used to dynamically acquire planting data, which includes image information of the target plants in the planting box, image information of the water body in the planting box, temperature information in the planting box, temperature information in the planting box, light information in the planting box, and functional patch consumption information.
3. The smart consumables based plant hydroponic ecosystem of claim 1, wherein, The functional patch comprises a degradable hydrogel matrix with a porous structure, and the hydrogel matrix is loaded with degradable microcapsules coated with functional components and trace elements; the functional components include plant nutrients, microbial inoculants, and water treatment agents, and the trace elements include metal ions.
4. The smart consumables based plant hydroponic ecosystem of claim 3, wherein, The degradable microcapsules can release plant nutrients, microbial inoculants, and water treatment agents into the water body according to a preset release curve and a preset release period.
5. The smart consumables based plant hydro-ecosystem of claim 3, wherein, The degradable hydrogel matrix is also loaded with a visual indicator, the degradation rate of which is associated with the degradation rate of the hydrogel matrix, for indicating the remaining effective life of the functional patch through color change.
6. The smart consumables based plant hydro-ecosystem of claim 1, wherein, The system further comprises a harvesting and packaging module for controlling a mechanical arm to perform harvesting and packaging actions on the target plants according to harvesting instructions.
7. A method of plant hydroponics based on smart consumables, characterized in that, The method comprises: receiving planting instructions through the receiving and calling layer, determining the species of target plants, and calling a standard planting parameter set corresponding to the species of target plants from the standard planting process database, the parameter set including environmental parameters, nutrient formula identifiers, and growth cycle nodes; deploying functional patches of corresponding formulas in the planting box according to the nutrient formula identifiers; starting the data acquisition module for real-time monitoring to acquire planting data, and comparing the planting data with the standard planting parameter set by the local host; when the planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host generates a control instruction to adjust the working state of the environment control module and the intelligent consumable layer, so that the planting data returns to the standard range; when it is detected that the target plants reach the growth cycle nodes, triggering the harvesting and packaging module to harvest and package the target plants.
8. The smart consumables based method of hydroponic plant cultivation as claimed in claim 7, wherein, When the planting data deviates from the standard planting parameter set, the local host computer generates a control instruction to adjust the working state of the environment control module and the intelligent consumable layer to make the planting data return to the standard range, including: Comparing the planting data with the standard planting parameter set by using the local host computer to identify the deviation item and the deviation value; Based on the preset control strategy library, at least one first control instruction is matched for the deviation item, and the control strategy library defines the mapping relationship between different deviation items and corresponding control modes; Based on the first control instruction, at least one of the light intensity, the light duration, or the water temperature, the water pH value, and the dissolved oxygen concentration is adjusted by using the environment control module; If the deviation item does not return to the standard range within a preset monitoring period after the first control instruction is executed, the local host computer generates a second control instruction; Based on the second control instruction, the functional patch is locally stimulated by using the excitation device to change the release rate of the degradable microcapsule.
9. An electronic device, comprising: The electronic device includes a memory and a processor, the memory stores a computer program, and the processor is configured to execute the steps of the method according to any one of claims 7-8.
10. A chip, characterized by The chip stores a computer program, and the computer program is executed by the processor to realize the steps of the method according to any one of claims 7-8.