A method and system for controlling the length of light exposure of a plant

Abstract

The application discloses a plant illumination time length control method and system. The plant illumination time length control method comprises the following steps: setting an illumination plan of a current cultivation stage of a plant cultivation unit, the illumination plan comprising fixed target exit room time and target return room time every day in the stage; driving the cultivation unit to move from a dark room to an illumination area at the target exit room time every day according to the illumination plan of the current cultivation stage, and driving the cultivation unit to return to the dark room from the illumination area at the target return room time; collecting and recording environmental data of the illumination area in the execution process of the current cultivation stage; after the current cultivation stage ends, generating an optimization strategy for an illumination plan of a next cultivation stage based on an analysis result of the recorded environmental data of the stage; and adjusting the target exit room time and / or the target return room time in the next cultivation stage according to the optimization strategy. The application can realize high-precision, self-adaptive and low-cost plant illumination time length management in the scene of large-scale plant cultivation.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to the fields of modern agriculture and plant biotechnology, and in particular to a method and system for controlling plant light duration. Background Technology

[0002] In agricultural research and large-scale plant cultivation, precise control of light duration is a crucial experimental method for studying plant photoperiodic responses, photosynthetic efficiency, stress resistance, and variety selection. This is especially true for crops like rice, which are sensitive to photoperiod and require specific and stable light conditions at different growth stages. Currently, the control of plant light duration primarily relies on climate chambers or timed transport. While climate chambers offer precise control, they are costly, space-constrained, and unsuitable for large-scale cultivation, and their artificial light sources differ from natural light environments. Timed transport, while utilizing natural light, suffers from inherent drawbacks such as low control precision, high labor costs, and low management efficiency. More importantly, the management strategies of these technologies are static and pre-set, unable to be optimized based on long-term environmental changes such as seasonal shifts or historical environmental data. This results in low light energy utilization efficiency, insufficient management intelligence, and difficulty in achieving high-precision, adaptive, and low-cost plant light duration management under large-scale conditions. Summary of the Invention

[0003] The present invention aims to at least partially solve one of the technical problems in the related art.

[0004] Therefore, embodiments of the present invention propose a method and system for controlling plant light duration, which can achieve high-precision, adaptive, and low-cost plant light duration management in large-scale plant cultivation scenarios.

[0005] The plant light duration control method of this invention includes:

[0006] Set a light plan for the current cultivation stage of the plant cultivation unit. The light plan includes the fixed daily target time for leaving the plant outdoors and the target time for returning it indoors during this stage. According to the current illumination plan for the cultivation stage, the cultivation unit is driven to move from the dark room to the illuminated area at the target exit time each day, and to return from the illuminated area to the dark room at the target return time. If the real-time temperature of the illuminated area exceeds the preset emergency air temperature threshold and the real-time temperature of the water in the cultivation unit exceeds the preset emergency water temperature threshold while the cultivation unit is in the illuminated area, the current illumination process is interrupted and a temporary return command is generated to drive the cultivation unit back to the dark room. During the current cultivation phase, environmental data of the illuminated area is continuously collected and recorded, including light intensity and real-time temperature. After the current cultivation phase ends, based on the environmental data analysis results recorded for that phase, an optimization strategy for the lighting plan of the next cultivation phase is generated, and the target out-of-room time and / or target return-in-room time in the next cultivation phase are adjusted according to the optimization strategy.

[0007] In some embodiments, the recorded environmental data is analyzed, and if the start time of the effective light intensity reaching the preset threshold in the current cultivation stage shows a regular change, the generated optimization strategy is to adjust the target exit time and target return time of the next cultivation stage accordingly.

[0008] In some embodiments, after the cultivation unit returns to the dark room and stays for a preset cooling time, or when the real-time temperature of the illuminated area is detected to drop below a safe value and the real-time temperature of the water in the cultivation unit drops to a safe range, a return command is generated to drive the cultivation unit to return to the illuminated area.

[0009] The plant light duration control system of this invention is used in the plant light duration control method described in any of the above embodiments. The plant light duration control system includes a darkroom, a track, a cultivation box, a data acquisition module, and a central control module. The darkroom has an openable and closable door. A portion of the track is laid inside the darkroom, and another portion is laid in the light-exposed area outside the darkroom. The cultivation box carries the plants and is positioned on the track, allowing it to move along the track between an initial position inside the darkroom and a designated working position within the light-exposed area. The data acquisition module collects physiological state data of the plants within the cultivation box and environmental data within the light-exposed area. The data acquisition module includes physiological sensors located inside the cultivation box and environmental sensors located within the light-exposed area. The central control module is connected to the data acquisition module and sends control commands to various execution components based on the collected data.

[0010] In some embodiments, the cultivation box is equipped with a supplemental lighting device, which is connected to the central control module. The central control module controls the operation of the supplemental lighting device according to the light intensity of the plant.

[0011] In some embodiments, the cultivation box is provided with storage compartments for fixing plants and a water supply and drainage device for controlling the water level in the box. The cultivation box is also provided with a water temperature control device, which is connected to the central control module. The central control module controls the start and stop of the water temperature control device according to the temperature difference between the water and the air in the cultivation box.

[0012] In some embodiments, the door of the darkroom includes an outer physical door and an inner disinfection spray device. The disinfection spray device is connected to the central control module, which controls the disinfection spray device to start and form a disinfection mist curtain. An alarm light is provided above the door of the darkroom, which displays a corresponding color of light according to the status of the darkroom.

[0013] In some embodiments, the bottom of the incubator is provided with a drive device adapted to the track, and the bottom of the incubator is also provided with a track cleaning device, the track cleaning device including a cleaning brush and / or an air blowing device, for cleaning the surface of the drive device and the track during movement, and the end of the track is provided with a limiting device for restricting the movement of the incubator on the track.

[0014] In summary, in the embodiments of this invention, by setting and executing fixed target out-of-room and target return-of-room times, the cultivation unit is driven to autonomously travel between the dark room and the illuminated area daily. This solves the problems of low control precision and high labor costs caused by manual handling, achieving stable and precise automated management of illumination duration. Furthermore, during the current stage, the system continuously collects and records light intensity and real-time temperature data in the illuminated area, providing an objective quantitative record of the execution process for this stage. After this stage ends, the system uses the recorded complete environmental data for data analysis and automatically generates optimization strategies based on the analysis results. These strategies are used to adjust the target out-of-room and / or target return-of-room times for the next stage, enabling the illumination plan to adaptively adjust based on previously accumulated actual environmental data. This effectively responds to long-term environmental changes such as seasonal transitions, maximizes the utilization of natural light energy, and actively avoids adverse environmental periods. This overcomes the shortcomings of traditional management strategies, which are statically preset and cannot be optimized, thus improving the scientific and intelligent level of light management in large-scale plant cultivation. Attached Figure Description

[0015] Figure 1 This is a schematic diagram of a plant light duration control method according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0016] Figure 2 This is a side view schematic diagram of the plant light duration control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0017] Figure 3 This is a top view of the interior of the darkroom of the plant light duration control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0018] Figure label: 1-Dark room; 101-Storage door; 102-Alarm light; 103-Disinfectant spray device; 2-Railway; 201-Limit device; 3-Incubator; 301-Drive device; 302-Storage compartment; 303-Water supply and drainage device; 304-Supplemental lighting device; 305-Water temperature control device; 306-Railway cleaning device. Detailed Implementation

[0019] Embodiments of the present invention are described in detail below, examples of which are illustrated in the accompanying drawings. The embodiments described below with reference to the accompanying drawings are exemplary and intended to explain the present invention, and should not be construed as limiting the present invention.

[0020] The plant light duration control system of the present invention is deployed in a plant cultivation facility. The system includes multiple cultivation units for carrying rice plants, multiple dark chambers for providing a dark environment, multiple tracks connecting the dark chambers to outdoor or greenhouse light areas, and a central control module. The central control module has built-in software programs for the plant light duration control method of the present invention.

[0021] The method and system for controlling plant light duration according to embodiments of the present invention are described below with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0022] like Figure 1 As shown, the plant light duration control method of this invention includes: S1. Setting and initializing the stage lighting plan: Set the lighting plan for the current cultivation stage of the plant cultivation unit. The lighting plan includes the fixed target time for leaving the plant outdoors and the target time for returning to the plant outdoors each day during this stage.

[0023] At the start of an experiment or production cycle, operators use the user interface of the central control module to set the light plan for the current cultivation stage for all plant cultivation units involved in the cultivation. The cultivation stage can be flexibly defined according to the crop growth cycle or management needs, such as a growing season, a month, or a week.

[0024] The core of the lighting plan is to clearly define the fixed target time for leaving the room and the target time for returning to the room each day within this phase. For example, if the current phase is set as the first week of April, the plan is to leave the room at 8:00 am and return at 5:00 pm every day.

[0025] Step S1 transforms management actions that originally relied on human experience or fixed procedures into digital instructions that can be precisely executed by an automated system, thus solving the problems of large timing errors and poor consistency caused by manual handling.

[0026] S2. Automated daily cycle execution based on fixed schedule: According to the illumination plan of the current cultivation stage, the cultivation unit is driven to move from the dark room to the illuminated area at the target exit time every day, and the cultivation unit is driven to return from the illuminated area to the dark room at the target return time.

[0027] After system initialization, the central control module will strictly control the operation of the entire system according to the lighting plan set by S1.

[0028] Upon reaching the target exit time each day, the system generates a control command to drive the designated cultivation unit to automatically move along a track from the dark room to a lit area, such as a greenhouse or a designated outdoor workstation. Upon reaching the target return time, the system generates another command to drive the cultivation unit to automatically return to the dark room along the original path.

[0029] Through the coordination of the track, drive device and control system, the large-scale, high-precision and unmanned timed movement of the cultivation unit is realized, which reduces labor costs, improves management efficiency and ensures that the start and end times of each unit receiving light are highly consistent every day.

[0030] S3. Continuous collection and recording of environmental data: During the current cultivation phase, environmental data of the illuminated area will be continuously collected and recorded, including light intensity and real-time temperature.

[0031] Throughout the entire execution process of the current cultivation phase, the system does not execute passively, but rather simultaneously initiates monitoring tasks.

[0032] Light intensity and temperature data are continuously collected at a set frequency (e.g., once per minute) using light intensity and temperature sensors deployed in the illuminated area. All collected raw data and their timestamps are transmitted in real time and stored in the database of the central control module, and associated with information such as the cultivation unit number and date.

[0033] S4. Cross-stage data analysis and strategy optimization: After the current cultivation stage ends, based on the environmental data analysis results recorded for that stage, an optimization strategy for the lighting plan of the next cultivation stage is generated, and the target out-of-room time and / or target return-to-room time in the next cultivation stage are adjusted according to the optimization strategy.

[0034] After the current cultivation phase ends, the system will automatically start the data analysis and optimization program.

[0035] The central control module invokes data analysis algorithms to process all environmental data recorded in phase S3. For example: Analyze the light intensity data to calculate the start time of effective light intensity each day. By analyzing the weekly data, it can be observed that the start time of effective light intensity gradually advances from 7:50 on Monday to 7:30 on Friday, showing a regular trend of earlier start.

[0036] Analyze temperature data and statistically analyze the time periods and frequency of daily high temperatures.

[0037] Based on the analysis results, the system automatically generates an optimized strategy for the lighting plan of the next cultivation phase (such as the second week of April).

[0038] For example, in response to the detected pattern of the effective light exposure starting time being earlier than usual, the optimization strategy is to adjust the target time for leaving the plant outdoors in the next stage from 8:00 to 7:40, so that the plants can receive effective light earlier and improve light energy utilization.

[0039] If the analysis reveals that high temperatures frequently occur between 2:00 PM and 4:00 PM daily during the current phase, the optimization strategy could be to advance the target return-to-room time for the next phase from 5:00 PM to 3:30 PM to avoid the stress of afternoon high temperatures.

[0040] Once the optimization strategy is confirmed, it will be automatically updated to the next phase of the lighting plan.

[0041] Thus, the system breaks free from the constraints of static presets and gains the ability to learn and optimize decisions based on historical data. Through cross-cycle feedback adjustment, the system can adapt to long-term environmental changes, such as seasonal changes, dynamically optimize the lighting window, improve light energy utilization efficiency, and proactively avoid periods of unfavorable environmental conditions.

[0042] The historical data consists of data collected and recorded by the system during the cultivation phase. This data was collected continuously at a fixed sampling frequency by environmental sensors deployed in the illuminated areas, capturing and recording light intensity and real-time temperature. All collected data is accompanied by a precise timestamp and stored in the central control module's database along with the corresponding cultivation unit number, date, and other information.

[0043] Self-learning and decision optimization involve the system calling built-in data analysis algorithms to process historical data after the current cultivation stage ends. Taking the analysis of effective light initiation time as an example, the system sets a preset threshold for effective light intensity for the plant during initialization. This preset threshold represents the minimum light intensity required to initiate effective photosynthesis in the plant.

[0044] The system first preprocesses the daily raw light intensity time series data, filters out data segments where the daily light intensity is greater than or equal to a preset threshold, and extracts the starting time point of each day when the light intensity first reaches and remains above the preset threshold. This results in a time series composed of the starting time points corresponding to all dates in this period.

[0045] The system uses a linear regression algorithm to perform statistical analysis on the time series. If the regression results show a significant, unidirectional shift trend in the starting time point sequence (such as continuous advancement), and the shift exceeds the preset minimum effective change, then a regular change is determined to exist.

[0046] Based on the judgment results, the system automatically generates an optimization strategy: according to the identified trend direction and magnitude, the target time for leaving the room in the next cultivation stage is adjusted accordingly (e.g., earlier) and the target time for returning to the room in the next stage is adjusted (synchronously earlier by an equal amount of time), so as to maintain the stability of the preset daylight duration while adapting to changes in natural light conditions.

[0047] The same principle applies when temperature data is used as the analysis object. The system can identify the regular changes in the time periods of afternoon high temperatures through linear regression or moving average algorithms, and adjust the return-to-room time for the next stage accordingly to avoid high temperature stress. In summary, the plant light duration control method provided by this invention ensures control accuracy and efficiency under large-scale management through the automated execution of a fixed plan. Then, through continuous recording of environmental data, it provides a quantitative basis for management decisions. Finally, through post-stage data analysis and strategy iteration, it proactively adjusts management strategies based on long-term environmental trends, reducing the manpower and equipment costs of large-scale plant light experiments and improving the scientific and intelligent level of light management.

[0048] In some embodiments, the recorded environmental data is analyzed, and if the start time of the effective light intensity reaching the preset threshold in the current cultivation stage shows a regular change, the generated optimization strategy is to adjust the target exit time and target return time of the next cultivation stage accordingly.

[0049] The preset threshold refers to the minimum light intensity required to initiate or maintain effective photosynthesis in a specific plant. It can be determined based on the light compensation point of different plants; for example, it is usually set at 20-50 μmol·m⁻² for rice. - ²·s - ¹ The system is calibrated according to the experimental objectives (such as low light tolerance research or high yield pursuit) and local actual light conditions (appropriately lowered in high-latitude, rainy areas). Furthermore, the threshold values ​​differ for different varieties or growth stages of the same crop (tillering stage, heading stage, etc.), and the system can have a built-in database for selection. The preset threshold is set via the user interface during system initialization and serves as the standard for determining the effective light start time.

[0050] During system initialization, an effective light intensity threshold is set for specific experimental plants. This threshold is a key physiological parameter representing the minimum light intensity required to initiate or maintain effective photosynthesis in the plant. During the data analysis phase, the system first preprocesses the raw light intensity time-series data recorded during the current cultivation phase, filtering out data segments where the daily light intensity is greater than or equal to the effective light intensity threshold.

[0051] The system performs the following analyses on the preprocessed data: It identifies the starting time point when the light intensity first reaches and remains above the effective light intensity threshold. It also performs statistical analysis on the starting time point sequence of the current cultivation stage. Algorithms such as linear regression and moving average are used to determine whether the data exhibits a significant regular trend. The starting time point sequence shows a statistically significant unidirectional shift, such as continuously advancing or delaying, and the shift exceeds the preset minimum effective change.

[0052] When a regular pattern of change is identified, the system automatically generates specific optimization strategies. Based on the identified trend direction and magnitude, the target exit time and target return time for the next breeding stage are adjusted accordingly.

[0053] While simply adjusting the time plants are taken outdoors can allow them to receive effective light earlier, failing to adjust the time they are taken back indoors simultaneously can cause changes in the total daily light duration, potentially deviating from the experimental design. Synchronous adjustment aims to shift the entire effective light window, adapting to environmental changes while maintaining the stability of the preset daylight duration as much as possible.

[0054] In this embodiment, by identifying the effective light start time, the system can proactively predict and adapt to the drift of the available natural light period caused by seasonal changes, latitude differences, or weather pattern changes, so that the light window of the cultivation unit can intelligently follow the natural effective light, maximize the use of natural light energy, and avoid the problem of ineffective irradiation in the early morning or evening when there is insufficient light.

[0055] In some embodiments, if the real-time temperature of the illuminated area exceeds a preset emergency air temperature threshold and the real-time temperature of the water in the cultivation unit exceeds a preset emergency water temperature threshold while the cultivation unit is in the illuminated area, the current illumination process is interrupted and a temporary retraction command is generated to drive the cultivation unit back to the dark chamber.

[0056] After the cultivation unit returns to the dark room and stays for a preset cooling time, or when the real-time temperature of the illuminated area is detected to drop below a safe value and the real-time temperature of the water in the cultivation unit drops to a safe range, a return command is generated to drive the cultivation unit to return to the illuminated area.

[0057] It is important to note that the system continuously monitors two key temperatures: the real-time air temperature in the illuminated area and the real-time water temperature within incubator 3. The system presets two thresholds: an emergency air temperature threshold (e.g., 38℃) and an emergency water temperature threshold (e.g., 35℃). These preset thresholds are used for real-time emergency protection during the current illumination process. Their values ​​are based on plant heat tolerance and are used to determine whether to trigger temporary relocation to avoid heat stress. The aforementioned preset threshold for effective light intensity is used for cross-stage data analysis. Its value is based on plant physiological characteristics (such as the light compensation point) and is used to determine the effective light initiation time, thereby optimizing the illumination plan for the next stage. These two thresholds differ in their control objectives, triggering timing, judgment methods, and execution actions; they are not the same concept.

[0058] The central control module determines that the cultivation unit is facing a definite risk of thermal stress only when the real-time air temperature continuously exceeds (e.g., for 5 minutes) the emergency air temperature threshold, and the real-time water temperature simultaneously exceeds the emergency water temperature threshold. At this point, the system immediately interrupts the current illumination process and generates a temporary retraction command with the highest priority.

[0059] For example, extreme high temperatures occurred in the illuminated area. Sensors detected that the real-time air temperature rapidly rose to 39°C and remained there for more than 5 minutes. At the same time, the water temperature in the cultivation unit also rose to 35.5°C due to continuous heating. The system determined that the air and water temperature conditions were simultaneously met and immediately triggered emergency protection.

[0060] Upon receiving the temporary retraction command, the drive unit 301 immediately moves the cultivation unit from the illuminated working position back along track 2 to its corresponding dark chamber 1 for forced cooling. The temperature inside dark chamber 1 is maintained at approximately 26°C, providing a rapid and stable low-temperature environment for the plants. During the period the cultivation unit remains in dark chamber 1, the water inside is actively cooled. Simultaneously, the system continuously monitors two recovery indicators: the real-time air temperature in the illuminated area and the real-time water temperature inside the cultivation unit.

[0061] The system's preset recovery conditions are as follows: the real-time air temperature in the illuminated area must stably drop below a safe threshold, for example, below the microcirculation trigger air temperature threshold of 38°C, and remain so for at least 30 minutes to eliminate the impact of instantaneous temperature fluctuations. Simultaneously, the water temperature within the cultivation unit must be actively cooled back to a safe range, for example, below 32°C. Only when both the air temperature and water temperature meet the above conditions simultaneously will the system determine that the heat stress has been completely relieved and the environment is suitable for restoring illumination.

[0062] For example, after the cultivation unit returns to dark chamber 1, the water temperature control device 305 is activated, reducing the water temperature from 35.5°C to 31°C within approximately 20 minutes. At this point, both the water temperature and air temperature conditions are met. The system then generates a return-to-light command, driving the cultivation unit to return to the light-exposed area and resume accumulating light exposure time from the point of interruption.

[0063] Under extreme heat, the aforementioned trigger-return-recovery-return micro-cycle process may occur several times in an afternoon, thus avoiding the hottest part of the day while ensuring that the cumulative total sunshine duration can approach the target value as closely as possible.

[0064] The plant light duration control method of this invention actively interrupts light exposure and removes the plant from the stress environment before heat stress reaches a critical point, thus achieving proactive avoidance of extreme environments. This proactively enhances the system's protective mechanism, improving the plant's survival rate and health under extreme weather conditions. Through a brief and reversible microcycle, it protects the plant from irreversible damage while ensuring the continuity of the light cycle, resulting in a final accumulated light duration that more closely approximates the ideal growth requirements.

[0065] The plant light duration control system of this invention is used in any of the plant light duration control methods described in the above embodiments.

[0066] like Figure 2 and Figure 3 As shown, the plant light duration control system of this invention includes a dark room 1, a track 2, an incubator 3, a data acquisition module, and a central control module (not shown in the figure).

[0067] Darkroom 1 provides a controlled dark environment. Constructed from opaque material, darkroom 1 can accommodate multiple incubators 3 forming a cultivation unit. The entrance to darkroom 1 is equipped with a motor-driven, openable and closable door 101. This door 101 is electrically connected to a central control module, and its opening and closing status is controlled by the system to ensure a completely dark environment is created after the incubators 3 enter.

[0068] Track 2 serves as the movement path for the incubator 3, forming a physical channel connecting the inside and outside of the dark chamber 1. Specifically, a portion of track 2 is laid inside the dark chamber 1, extending to the door 101, defining the initial storage position of the incubator 3. Another portion of track 2 extends from the exit of the dark chamber 1 to the outdoor illuminated area, with specific locations within this area designated as designated working positions. The entire track 2 provides precise guidance for the automated movement of the incubator 3.

[0069] The cultivation box 3 is used to hold plants (such as rice). The cultivation box 3 is set on the track 2 so that the cultivation box 3 can move along the track 2 between the initial position in the dark room 1 and the designated working position in the light area. The data acquisition module is used to collect physiological status data of plants in the incubator 3 and environmental data within the light area. The data acquisition module is responsible for providing the data required for decision-making to the central control module. The data acquisition module can be composed of multiple sensors distributed in different locations.

[0070] The central control module can consist of an industrial computer (IPC), a programmable logic controller (PLC), and related control software. Connected to the data acquisition module, the central control module sends precise opening, closing, movement, and stopping control commands to each actuator (door 101 motor, drive unit 301) based on the acquired data, thereby coordinating the automated operation of the entire system.

[0071] The plant illumination duration control system of this invention comprises a darkroom 1 and its openable / closable door 101 forming a controllable dark environment. A track 2 is laid inside and outside the darkroom 1 to define the movement path, and a cultivation box 3 serves as the active unit carrying the plants. The combination of these three components creates a collaborative structure that enables plants to automatically move between the illuminated area and the darkroom 1 according to a program, thereby replacing inefficient manual handling and achieving precise automated control of plant illumination duration.

[0072] The data acquisition module is responsible for acquiring real-time physiological and environmental data of plants, while the central control module executes preset intelligent algorithms based on the data and generates dynamic control commands. This makes the light decision no longer dependent on a fixed preset program, but can be dynamically adjusted according to the real-time situation, realizing closed-loop intelligent feedback regulation of the light strategy.

[0073] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, each darkroom 1 has an alarm light 102 above its door 101. The alarm light 102 is used to display a corresponding color of light according to the status of the darkroom 1. The alarm light 102 integrates red, yellow, and green LED light sources, and its internal circuit is electrically connected to the central control module.

[0074] When the central control module detects that all system components (including the door 101, track 2, drive mechanism, etc.) are operating normally and all incubators 3 are in their preset positions (such as in the dark room 1 or in the lighted area as planned), the central control module sends a command to the alarm light 102 to display a stable green light.

[0075] When the control program of the central control module is triggered, driving a certain incubator 3 into the dark chamber 1, or when the incubator 3 is in the dark chamber 1 but its single light cycle has not yet ended, the central control module will send a command to the alarm light 102 to display a stable yellow light to indicate the status of incubation.

[0076] When the central control module detects any abnormality through its own diagnostic program or sensor feedback, such as the failure of the door 101 to open or close, the drive unit 301 to stall, the data acquisition module communication interruption, or the incubator 3 failing to return to the dark chamber 1 on time, the central control module will send a command to the alarm light 102 to display a flashing red light, and at the same time trigger the buzzer alarm.

[0077] In the plant light duration control system of this invention, the central control module represents the system's operating status (normal, in cultivation, fault) as three light colors, which are displayed in real time via alarm lights 102. Operators do not need to approach the equipment or check the computer screen; they can simply scan the light colors above each darkroom 1 from a distance to understand the system's operating status, thus improving management efficiency.

[0078] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, a limiting device 201 is provided at the end of the track 2. The limiting device 201 is used to restrict the incubator 3 from moving on the track 2.

[0079] The limit device 201 can be a metal stop block, fixed to both ends of the track 2 by bolts. Additionally, to mitigate impact and provide accurate positioning signals, a cushioning rubber pad is attached to the side of the stop block facing the incubator 3, and a mechanical or Hall effect position sensor is integrated inside the stop block. This sensor is electrically connected to the central control module via a signal line.

[0080] When the incubator 3 moves to the end of the track 2 (i.e., the designated working position in the light-illuminated area) under the traction of the drive device 301, its front end will first contact the buffer rubber pad, and then its main body will slightly touch the metal stop block, thereby preventing it from sliding off the track 2 due to inertia or control failure and causing a fall or collision accident.

[0081] The moment the incubator 3 touches the stop block, the position sensor integrated within the stop block is triggered, sending an electrical signal indicating that it has reached its designated position to the central control module. Upon receiving this signal, the central control module confirms that the incubator 3 has reached the designated position and then controls the drive unit 301 to stop supplying power. The limiting device 201 at one end of the dark chamber 1 functions similarly, ensuring that the initial storage position of the incubator 3 within the dark chamber 1 is accurate.

[0082] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bottom of the cultivation box 3 is equipped with a drive device 301 adapted to the track 2, and the cultivation box 3 is equipped with a storage compartment 302 for fixing plants and a water supply and drainage device 303 for controlling the water level in the box.

[0083] The drive unit 301 may include one or more DC geared motors, each motor being connected to a drive wheel via a transmission mechanism (such as a gearbox), the drive wheel being in close contact with the surface of the top surface of the track 2. The drive unit 301 establishes an electrical connection with the central control module via a wireless communication module or via a power supply sliding contact line laid on the side of the track 2, for receiving motion commands such as forward, backward, and stop issued by the module.

[0084] The inner wall of the box is equipped with multiple or multiple sets of slots or partitions with holes to fix the cultivation pots or nutrient solution cups of plants such as rice, ensuring that the plants will not tip over during the movement of the cultivation box 3.

[0085] The bottom of the incubator 3 has an inner cavity for storing nutrient solution or water. The water inlet of the water supply and drainage device 303 is connected to an external water supply pipeline via a solenoid valve, and its drain outlet is also controlled by a solenoid valve. Both solenoid valves are electrically connected to the central control module to receive water inlet or drain commands from it, thereby controlling the water level in the tank.

[0086] In some embodiments, the data acquisition module includes an environmental sensor located within the illuminated area. The environmental sensor is integrated onto a small weather station-style column and deployed in the center or at multiple key locations within the illuminated area. The environmental sensor includes multiple components such as a temperature sensor, humidity sensor, and light intensity sensor, used to collect environmental data within the illuminated area. The environmental sensor transmits the collected data to the central control module in real time.

[0087] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the cultivation box 3 is equipped with a supplemental lighting device 304, which is connected to the central control module. The central control module controls the operation of the supplemental lighting device 304 according to the light intensity of the plant.

[0088] The long side wall of the incubator 3 has a storage compartment for the supplemental lighting device 304. The storage compartment is a flat cavity with its opening located on the upper part of the side wall of the incubator 3, and is equipped with a waterproof cover driven by a motor.

[0089] The core light-emitting components of the supplemental lighting device 304 include an LED light panel and a reflector. The LED light panel can emit the full spectrum or specific wavelengths, such as red and blue light that promotes photosynthesis. The LED light panel is connected to the bottom of the storage compartment via a hinge and can be flipped and unfolded under the action of the drive component. Foldable reflectors are hinged to both sides of the LED light panel. The surface of the reflectors is made of a highly reflective material, which is used to focus and reflect light onto the plant canopy inside the cultivation box 3, thereby improving the efficiency of light energy utilization.

[0090] The drive assembly includes an electric slide rail and a linkage mechanism. Upon receiving an deployment command, the hatch opens first, followed by the activation of the electric slide rail, which smoothly pushes the LED light panel out of the storage compartment and raises it to the preset working height (e.g., 20-30 cm above the plant canopy). Simultaneously, the linkage mechanism operates, deploying the reflectors on both sides to the optimal reflection angle (e.g., 45° angle to the horizontal). The entire deployment process is precisely controlled by a central control module.

[0091] A light intensity sensor is installed on the outside or top of the incubator 3 to monitor the natural light intensity at the location of the incubator 3 in real time.

[0092] The LED light panel, drive components, and light sensors are all electrically connected to the central control module via wired (e.g., via the wire harness track of the incubator 3) or wireless means, receiving its commands and feeding back status signals.

[0093] For example, the supplemental lighting device 304 provides automatic supplemental lighting in cloudy weather. The incubator 3 is driven to a designated position in the illuminated area according to a preset program. At this time, due to the clouds blocking sunlight, the real-time illuminance value continuously monitored by the light intensity sensor is lower than the photosynthetically effective light intensity threshold preset for this experimental group in the central control module.

[0094] The central control module determined that natural light was insufficient for the experiment and immediately sent a start command to the supplemental lighting device 304 in the incubator 3. The supplemental lighting device 304 automatically deployed, the LED light panel illuminated, and provided stable light to the rice plants inside the incubator at a preset intensity. When the clouds dispersed and the natural light intensity returned to the photosynthetically effective light intensity threshold and remained there for more than 5 minutes, the central control module determined that further supplemental lighting was unnecessary and issued a shut-off command. The LED light panel turned off, the drive mechanism reversed direction, folded the reflector, retracted the light panel into the storage compartment, and finally closed the compartment cover.

[0095] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the incubator 3 is also equipped with a water temperature control device 305, which is connected to the central control module. The central control module controls the start and stop of the water temperature control device 305 according to the temperature difference between the water and the air in the incubator 3.

[0096] Optionally, the water temperature control device 305 includes a water temperature sensor, an air temperature sensor, and a core refrigeration and heat exchange unit.

[0097] The water temperature sensor uses a waterproof, high-precision temperature probe and is submerged in the water or nutrient solution at the bottom of the cultivation chamber 3 to monitor the water temperature in real time. The air temperature sensor is located inside the cultivation chamber 3, in the ventilation area below the plant canopy, to monitor the air temperature inside the chamber in real time. All sensors communicate directly with the central control module and continuously upload temperature data.

[0098] The core refrigeration and heat exchange unit includes a water-cooling module, coolant circulation piping, and a circulation power unit. The water-cooling module uses a thermoelectric cooler (TEC) module as the cold source. This module has the advantages of small size, no moving mechanical parts, precise temperature control, and rapid response. Multiple TECs are mounted in an array on the back of a metal heat-conducting plate (cold plate). The coolant circulation piping is a coil-type heat exchanger, which is immersed in or closely attached to the bottom or side wall of the water in the incubator 3. The piping is filled with antifreeze coolant. The circulation power unit is a miniature magnetically driven circulation pump used to drive the coolant circulation within the piping. The circulation pump works in conjunction with the refrigeration module.

[0099] When the system starts, the thermoelectric cooler begins to operate, its cold end absorbing heat from the heat-conducting plate (cold plate), lowering the plate's temperature. The coolant flowing through the channels on the back of the cold plate is cooled, and the cooled coolant is driven by a circulation pump to flow through a coil-type heat exchanger submerged in water. At the heat exchanger, the coolant undergoes efficient heat exchange with the water in the incubator 3, absorbing heat from the water and thus lowering its temperature. The heated coolant then flows back to the refrigeration module to be cooled again, and the cycle continues.

[0100] The water temperature control device 305 (refrigeration module, circulation pump) is compactly integrated inside the incubator 3 near the door or in a dedicated compartment at the bottom. It is isolated from the plant growth area inside the incubator by thermal insulation material to reduce vibration and thermal interference. All electrical components (refrigeration element, circulation pump) are connected to the central control module through the wiring harness interface of the incubator 3 and are controlled by its start and stop.

[0101] For example, in a high-temperature, sunny environment, incubator 3 is exposed to sunlight in the illuminated area. As the air temperature in the illuminated area rises, the water temperature also continues to rise due to the water's heat capacity. At this time, the water temperature control device 305 does not activate. However, the high ambient temperature has already triggered environmental regulation factors to shorten the illumination duration or activate microcirculation, and the system may be about to move incubator 3 back to darkroom 1.

[0102] After the incubator 3 returns to the lower-temperature dark chamber 1, the air temperature drops rapidly. However, due to the high specific heat capacity of water, the water temperature drops slowly. At this point, the central control module activates the water temperature control device 305. The refrigeration system begins to work, actively lowering the water temperature.

[0103] It is understandable that plant cultivation equipment in related technologies (including artificial climate chambers) generally focuses on controlling air temperature, humidity, and light, but neglects rhizosphere water temperature, a key factor that directly affects water and nutrient absorption, root microbial activity, and the overall stress resistance of plants. The automated mobile cultivation system of this invention integrates active temperature control of the water body, achieving precise regulation of the plant growth environment across all dimensions.

[0104] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2As shown, the door 101 of the darkroom 1 includes an outer physical door and an inner disinfection spray device 103. The disinfection spray device 103 is connected to the central control module, which is used to control the disinfection spray device 103 to start and form a disinfection mist curtain.

[0105] The outer physical door can be either an electric roller shutter or a sliding sealed door. The door frame is made of a lightweight alloy material covered with composite light-blocking material, ensuring complete darkness inside the darkroom 1 when closed. Sealing strips are installed along the door edges, ensuring a tight fit with the door frame and providing both light blocking and initial isolation from external air and pests. The outer physical door is driven by a servo motor, and its opening and closing movements are precisely controlled by a central control module and linked to the movement commands of the incubator 3.

[0106] Above the inner side of the outer physical door (i.e., at the entrance of darkroom 1), a multi-hole spray pipe is installed across the door frame. The spray pipe is connected to a disinfectant storage tank, a precision metering pump, and an air pressure source located on the side wall or top of darkroom 1 through pipelines, which together constitute the core of the disinfection spray device 103.

[0107] The spray nozzles of the perforated spray pipe are specially designed to produce a fine (e.g., 10-50 micrometers) and evenly distributed disinfectant mist curtain under specific air pressure and flow rate. The width and density of the mist curtain are sufficient to cover the entire cross-section of the 101 passageway. An electromagnetic control valve is installed on the pipeline. Infrared or ultrasonic sensors can be installed below or to the side of the spray pipe to detect the presence of an object (incubator 3) passing through the passage.

[0108] When incubator 3 needs to move in or out, the central control module first controls the physical door to open. The instant incubator 3 begins to move through the doorway, the infrared sensor is triggered, and the central control module immediately starts the metering pump and solenoid valve. Disinfectant is sprayed out from the multi-hole spray pipe under air pressure, forming a dense mist curtain at the doorway that lasts for several seconds. Incubator 3 and the plants it carries completely pass through this mist curtain during movement, and their surfaces (plant stems and leaves, outer walls of the incubator) are covered with disinfectant particles. After incubator 3 has completely passed through, the sensor signal disappears, and the spraying stops. The physical door then closes. The entire process is automated, and personnel do not need to approach.

[0109] In some embodiments, such as Figure 2 As shown, the bottom of the incubator 3 is also provided with a track cleaning device 306, which includes a cleaning brush and / or an air blowing device for cleaning the surface of the drive unit 301 and the track 2 during movement.

[0110] The track cleaning device 306 is installed on the bottom frame of the incubator 3, located on both sides of the drive unit 301 (such as the drive wheel set). It adopts a modular design and typically includes a front cleaning module and a rear cleaning or inspection module, which are responsible for pre-cleaning in the direction of travel and final cleaning and inspection after passing through.

[0111] The front cleaning module (primarily for sweeping) consists of a cylindrical rotating brush driven by a motor. The brush bristles are made of a wear-resistant and elastic material (such as a nylon blend), and their length is precisely calculated to ensure they gently press against the top and sides of track 2 in their natural state. The sweeping brush's drive motor is linked to the main drive motor of the incubator 3. When the central control module issues a movement command and the incubator 3 begins to move along track 2, the front sweeping brush starts rotating synchronously.

[0112] The rear cleaning or inspection module (primarily for air blowing and inspection functions) uses a high-pressure air blowing device located at the bottom rear of the housing. It includes a silent air pump, an air tank, and a row of flat nozzles pointing towards the surface of track 2. The nozzles are aimed at the top surface of track 2, the contact surface of the drive wheel, and the groove of track 2.

[0113] When the incubator 3 moves or arrives at its workstation, the central control module can control the air pump to start intermittently, generating a pulsed high-speed airflow to thoroughly blow away fine dust, sand, water stains, and residual dust from previous cleaning from the surface of track 2. The cleaned surface of track 2 is then exposed, facilitating subsequent visual or sensor inspection.

[0114] The track cleaning device 306 acts directly on the drive device 301 to clean the dirt attached to the surface of the drive wheel to prevent slippage, as well as the surface of the track 2, cleaning the top surface and guide surface of the track 2 to ensure smooth operation.

[0115] The cleaning action occurs synchronously with each movement of the incubator 3. The process of the incubator 3 moving back and forth between the dark chamber 1 and the light area on the track 2 is the process of the track 2 being automatically cleaned and maintained, without the need to schedule additional cleaning cycles or equipment.

[0116] In the description of this invention, it should be understood that the terms "center," "longitudinal," "lateral," "length," "width," "thickness," "upper," "lower," "front," "rear," "left," "right," "vertical," "horizontal," "top," "bottom," "inner," "outer," "clockwise," "counterclockwise," "axial," "radial," and "circumferential" indicate the orientation or positional relationship based on the orientation or positional relationship shown in the accompanying drawings. They are used only for the convenience of describing this invention and simplifying the description, and are not intended to indicate or imply that the device or element referred to must have a specific orientation, or be constructed and operated in a specific orientation. Therefore, they should not be construed as limitations on this invention.

[0117] Furthermore, the terms "first" and "second" are used for descriptive purposes only and should not be construed as indicating or implying relative importance or implicitly specifying the number of technical features indicated. Thus, a feature defined as "first" or "second" may explicitly or implicitly include at least one of that feature. In the description of this invention, "a plurality of" means at least two, such as two, three, etc., unless otherwise explicitly specified.

[0118] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, the terms "installation," "connection," "linking," and "fixing," etc., should be interpreted broadly. For example, they can refer to a fixed connection, a detachable connection, or an integral part; they can refer to a mechanical connection, an electrical connection, or a connection that allows communication between them; they can refer to a direct connection or an indirect connection through an intermediate medium; they can refer to the internal communication of two components or the interaction between two components, unless otherwise explicitly limited. Those skilled in the art can understand the specific meaning of the above terms in this invention according to the specific circumstances.

[0119] In this invention, unless otherwise explicitly specified and limited, "above" or "below" the second feature can mean that the first feature is in direct contact with the second feature, or that the first feature is in indirect contact with the second feature through an intermediate medium. Furthermore, "above," "over," and "on top" of the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly above or diagonally above the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a higher horizontal level than the second feature. "Below," "below," and "under" the second feature can mean that the first feature is directly below or diagonally below the second feature, or simply that the first feature is at a lower horizontal level than the second feature.

[0120] In this invention, the terms "one embodiment," "some embodiments," "example," "specific example," or "some examples," etc., refer to a specific feature, structure, material, or characteristic described in connection with that embodiment or example, which is included in at least one embodiment or example of the invention. In this specification, the illustrative expressions of the above terms do not necessarily refer to the same embodiment or example. Furthermore, the specific features, structures, materials, or characteristics described may be combined in any suitable manner in one or more embodiments or examples. Moreover, without contradiction, those skilled in the art can combine and integrate the different embodiments or examples described in this specification, as well as the features of different embodiments or examples.

[0121] Although embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described above, it is understood that the above embodiments are exemplary and should not be construed as limiting the present invention. Those skilled in the art can make changes, modifications, substitutions and variations to the above embodiments within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. A method for controlling the duration of light exposure in plants, characterized in that, include: Set a light plan for the current cultivation stage of the plant cultivation unit. The light plan includes the fixed target time for leaving the plant outdoors and the target time for returning to the plant outdoors each day during this stage. The cultivation stage is a time period that is preset according to the crop growth cycle or management needs. According to the current illumination plan for the cultivation stage, the cultivation unit is driven to move from the dark room to the illuminated area at the target exit time each day, and to return from the illuminated area to the dark room at the target return time. If the real-time temperature of the illuminated area exceeds the preset emergency air temperature threshold and the real-time temperature of the water in the cultivation unit exceeds the preset emergency water temperature threshold while the cultivation unit is in the illuminated area, the current illumination process is interrupted and a temporary return command is generated to drive the cultivation unit back to the dark room. During the current cultivation phase, environmental data of the illuminated area is continuously collected and recorded, including light intensity and real-time temperature. After the current cultivation phase ends, based on the environmental data analysis results recorded for that phase, an optimization strategy for the lighting plan of the next cultivation phase is generated, and the target out-of-room time and / or target return-in-room time in the next cultivation phase are adjusted according to the optimization strategy. Analyzing the recorded environmental data, if the start time of the effective light intensity reaching the preset threshold in the current cultivation stage shows a regular change, the generated optimization strategy is to adjust the target out-of-room time and target return-in-room time for the next cultivation stage accordingly. The preset threshold is the minimum light intensity required to initiate effective photosynthesis in plants.

2. The method for controlling plant light duration according to claim 1, characterized in that, After the cultivation unit returns to the dark room and stays for a preset cooling time, or when the real-time temperature of the illuminated area is detected to drop below a safe value and the real-time temperature of the water in the cultivation unit drops to a safe range, a return command is generated to drive the cultivation unit to return to the illuminated area.

3. A plant light duration control system, characterized in that, The plant light duration control system is used in the plant light duration control method according to any one of claims 1-2, and the plant light duration control system comprises: A darkroom, wherein the darkroom is equipped with an openable and closable storage door; The track, a portion of which is laid in the dark room and the other portion of which is laid in the illuminated area outside the dark room; A cultivation box for carrying plants, the cultivation box being positioned on the track to allow the cultivation box to move along the track between an initial position in a dark room and a designated working position in a lighted area; A data acquisition module is used to collect physiological state data of plants in the cultivation box and environmental data within the light area. The data acquisition module includes a physiological sensor installed in the cultivation box and an environmental sensor installed within the light area. A central control module is connected to the data acquisition module, and the central control module sends control commands to each execution component based on the acquired data.

4. The plant light duration control system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cultivation box is equipped with a supplemental lighting device, which is connected to the central control module. The central control module controls the operation of the supplemental lighting device according to the light intensity of the plant.

5. The plant light duration control system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The cultivation box is equipped with storage compartments for fixing plants and a water supply and drainage device for controlling the water level inside the box. The cultivation box is also equipped with a water temperature control device, which is connected to the central control module. The central control module controls the start and stop of the water temperature control device according to the temperature difference between the water and the air inside the cultivation box.

6. The plant light duration control system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The darkroom's door includes an outer physical door and an inner disinfection spray device. The disinfection spray device is connected to the central control module, which controls the disinfection spray device to activate and form a disinfection mist curtain. An alarm light is installed above the darkroom's door, which displays a corresponding color of light according to the darkroom's status.

7. The plant light duration control system according to claim 3, characterized in that, The bottom of the incubator is equipped with a drive device adapted to the track. The bottom of the incubator is also equipped with a track cleaning device, which includes a cleaning brush and / or an air blowing device for cleaning the surface of the drive device and the track during movement. The end of the track is equipped with a limiting device for restricting the movement of the incubator on the track.

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