Greenhouse unit

Abstract

Greenhouse unit (10), comprising PV modules (30) for shading and electricity generation, a supporting structure made of uprights (12) connected by base supports (15) and lattice girders (16), wherein the supporting structure together with a suspended foil roof (22) arranged completely below the lattice girders (16) and lateral wall elements (21) form a growing space (46), characterized in that the PV modules (30) are attached or mounted on the supporting structure (16) above the foil roof independently of the supporting structure.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a greenhouse specifically adapted to different climate zones and their changing climatic conditions. The solar energy generated is primarily used to cool the greenhouse, not to feed into the power grid, in order to effectively counteract the rising temperature stresses resulting from climate change.

[0002] Modern greenhouses are used in various regions to grow crops and ornamental plants such as vegetables, fruit, and flowers. Due in particular to climate change and its impact on solar radiation and temperature, there is a growing need to adapt greenhouses to different climate zones, such as arid, Mediterranean, or temperate zones.

[0003] The present invention offers a combination of energy generation and climate control, with the generated energy being used primarily for cooling purposes. The greenhouse's design is based on the flexible use of PV modules (photovoltaic modules), which enable dynamic control of light transmission while simultaneously supporting temperature regulation. State of the art

[0004] Greenhouses are used worldwide to produce plants in a variety of climatic conditions. They often consist of glass or film structures supported by supporting structures. Modern greenhouses are also equipped with auxiliary systems, such as lighting, ventilation, and irrigation systems, to create optimal growing conditions.

[0005] In recent years, there has been an increasing focus on the use of renewable energy, with photovoltaic systems on greenhouse roofs being particularly popular for generating electricity. These systems were originally promoted as a way to feed surplus electricity into the grid, but now the focus is on self-consumption, for example, for cooling, lighting, or ventilation within the greenhouse.

[0006] As climate change progresses, extreme weather conditions are becoming more common, especially in arid, Mediterranean, and temperate climates. High temperatures and intense solar radiation put stress on both plants and the entire climate system of a greenhouse. • Arid zones (700-1000 W / m 2 IR radiation) require particularly strong cooling and shading during the hot times of the day, as temperatures fluctuate considerably. • Mediterranean regions (600-800 W / m 2in summer) benefit from flexible climate control to provide sufficient shade during the hot summer months, while additional heat is needed in winter. • Temperate zones (400-600 W / m 2 ) require a precise balance between shading and direct sunlight, as the seasons vary greatly.

[0007] Climate change is increasing solar radiation in many regions, making increased ventilation and cooling within greenhouses necessary.

[0008] The applicant had already described a greenhouse with a suspended plastic roof and PV modules in DE202010000274U1, which serve for energy generation and shading. The modules can be mounted at various angles and in various arrangements to optimize energy yield. However, one disadvantage is that there is no specific light scattering, which can lead to a zebra effect in plant growth. Furthermore, the module mounts are not very flexible and are susceptible to wind and gusts.

[0009] DE202017000843U1 covers a shed-roof greenhouse with integrated PV modules for energy generation and variable light transmission. A disadvantage of this approach is that the PV modules also produce the zebra effect, as there is no targeted light dispersion. Furthermore, there is no protective film over the modules, making them vulnerable to wind and dust.

[0010] WO2023238057A1 describes a foldable, multi-layer roof system for greenhouses that uses PV modules for energy generation and climate control. It consists of three layers: a climate layer for regulating temperature and humidity, a PV layer for power generation and shading, and a protective layer that protects the modules from wind and dust. The layers can be moved independently of each other to flexibly control light transmission and the indoor climate. The foldable PV module system on a movable film described in WO2023238057A1 has the disadvantage of being subject to severe mechanical and thermal stress, particularly in hot climates where the surface temperatures of the PV modules can reach 80°C or more. Over the long term, this leads to material fatigue, deformation, and reduced efficiency, significantly impacting the longevity of the system. Task:

[0011] The objective of the present invention is to develop a greenhouse that is adapted to changing climatic conditions and can be used in different climate zones. PV modules (photovoltaic modules) are to (a) provide shade and (b) use the energy they generate primarily for cooling. The modules are to be flexibly positionable to dynamically adapt to changing light and climatic conditions. Furthermore, the zebra effect is to be prevented by a suitable film, and the modules are to be protected from environmental influences such as wind and dirt. Solution to the task:

[0012] The solution to the problem arises from the features of claim 1, wherein advantageous embodiments are the subject of the dependent claims. Examples of implementation:

[0013] They show: Fig.1: Schematic, perspective side view of a greenhouse with mounted PV system. Fig. 1A: Perspective side view of a greenhouse with larger, lower positioned PV panels, as a variant of Fig. 1. Fig. 1B: Side view of the supporting structure with single-armed, movable PV panels. Fig. 2: Alternative design with PV modules arranged transversely to the suspended foils and a 90-degree orientation to direct sunlight. Fig. 3: Schematic, perspective side view of another embodiment in which the lattice girders conceal the PV panels due to their height. Description of the characters:

[0014] Fig.1 shows, by way of example, a schematic, perspective side view of a greenhouse unit 10 with a mounted PV system (photovoltaic modules 30). The unit has a width of 3 meters and a total length of 12 meters, with vertical posts 12 spaced 3 meters apart. Several such units 10 can be arranged in parallel or one behind the other. The spacing of the posts 12 is chosen, among other things, because the PV modules 30 have a length of 3 meters. The posts 12 are attached to foundations 14, which are connected to one another via floor supports 15. The floor supports 15 carry the posts 12 and are anchored in the ground 17 with the foundations 14.

[0015] Sensors are located in the soil 17 or in the immediate vicinity of the plants (not shown) which, in addition to the soil moisture, also record other parameters relevant to the PV system, such as the amount of light, light intensity and the angle of incidence of the light.

[0016] Horizontal lattice girders 16 serve as the supporting structure for rails 28 running along the longitudinal axis of the greenhouse 10. Attached to these rails are suspension bars 28 for the film sheet 22 suspended between them, which acts as a suspended roof skin. The film sheet 22 is slightly pressed downward in the closed position by a weight, such as an inserted tube 20. The entire roof skin is located below the lattice girders 16; together with posts 12 and wall elements 21, it forms a cultivation space 46.

[0017] In one embodiment, the PV modules 30 are rotatably mounted in the lattice girders 16, wherein the PV modules 30 are attached via laterally mounted pins that are positioned either in the middle or at the bottom of the modules and are received in corresponding bearing bushes or brackets within the lattice girders 16 to enable tilting and rotating of the modules about a horizontal axis.

[0018] In an alternative embodiment, a rail 26 is attached to the lattice girders 16, into which single-armed, movable brackets 34 engage, which support the PV modules 30 and enable movement of the modules along the rail 26.

[0019] The PV modules 30 differ from conventional flat roof modules in two key features: They are bifacial, meaning they actively absorb light on both sides, and they are installed vertically.

[0020] The lower operating temperatures of vertically installed 30-inch PV modules contribute to higher performance, as PV modules lose efficiency as temperatures rise. While tilted PV modules often reach temperatures exceeding 50°C, vertical modules only heat up by 25 to 30°C above the ambient temperature. In addition, horizontal or tilted PV modules require more maintenance in northern regions with snowstorms or in southern climates with sandstorms, as these weather conditions can block energy production for several days. However, with vertically installed PV modules, snow or sand falls through, significantly reducing maintenance requirements. Due to the low installation height of the 30-inch PV modules, for example, 30 cm, and their lightweight aluminum or plastic construction, the vertical 30-inch PV modules are particularly lightweight and practical for mounting on greenhouses.

[0021] Two alternative mechanisms are available for moving the PV modules 30: a) Each bracket 34 is equipped with a small electric drive. b) Alternatively, the bracket 34 can be moved via a cable system with a coupling mechanism or a motorized rack and pinion gear.

[0022] The PV modules 30 are moved along the rail 26 using single-armed, movable brackets 34. Each drive (not shown in the figure) allows each PV module 30 to be moved independently (variant A). The electrical drives are synchronized and centrally controlled to ensure smooth movement of the modules. Position sensors in the drives ensure that the PV modules 30 automatically stop at the end of the rail 26 or in a desired end position. While the PV modules 30 remain fixed in the end position, the more distant PV modules 30 can continue to be moved along the rail 26 until all have reached the end position. This allows the roof to be fully or partially cleared. Thanks to the vertical arrangement and shallow installation depth, the PV modules 30 can be arranged in rows to save space.

[0023] In variant B, a cable or gear system with a coupling mechanism, the PV modules 30 are connected to each other and moved one after the other. As soon as a PV module 30 reaches its end position, it is automatically decoupled from the cable, while the remaining PV modules 30 continue to move. The cable system enables centralized movement of the PV modules 30. A braking mechanism ensures that the PV modules 30 remain fixed in their end position. This system can represent an energy-efficient and more cost-effective alternative to variant A. The rails 26 and brackets 34 are designed to support the load of the PV modules 30 and offer a low-maintenance solution. While the cable system may have lower maintenance requirements, the electric drive system (variant A) requires regular inspections of the motors and sensors.

[0024] The number of PV modules (30) in temperate climates is typically two modules per 3 meters, with the spacing between the PV modules being approximately 1 meter, as each PV module (30) has an installation depth of approximately 5 cm. However, in Mediterranean or arid climates, more PV modules (30) can be deployed on the same stretch, depending on the light and shading requirements. It is possible to add or remove additional PV modules (30). This can be achieved either by simply integrating them into the existing system (option a) or by adapting the cable system with a coupling mechanism (option b).

[0025] To protect the PV modules 30, the cover film 32 can be stretched over the cable 37 stretched between the connecting supports 18. This protects the PV modules 30 from sand, sandstorms, and wind in arid climates. This is also useful in northern regions, as it protects the PV modules 30 from snow and wind. In addition, the enclosed area around the PV modules 30 can be cooled. Depending on the climate zone, the cover film 32 can either remain permanently closed or be designed so that it can be opened as needed.

[0026] A previously mentioned film system, consisting of film 20 and pipes 22, is installed below the lattice girders 16 and above the cultivation chamber 46. In Mediterranean or arid climates, it may be advantageous to shield the cultivation chamber with a permanently closed film 20 to enable controlled ventilation, cooling, and CO2 gassing. In these climates, a closed structure ensures more stable climatic conditions in the greenhouse and thus contributes significantly to improving plant growth.

[0027] Since CO2 fumigation is required in closed greenhouses, CO2 fumigation systems are often used. These systems use fossil fuels such as natural gas or liquefied petroleum gas to generate CO2. However, in light of global warming, interest in more environmentally friendly alternatives is growing. One promising solution is so-called CO2 catchers, which extract carbon dioxide from the ambient air of the greenhouse and make it available for enrichment in greenhouses. This technology enables sustainable CO2 capture without the use of fossil fuels. This allows the CO2 demand of the plants to be met and the ecological footprint of the greenhouse operation to be significantly reduced. The energy required for this can be covered by the electricity generated by the PV modules (30).

[0028] The spacing of the PV modules 30 and the resulting irregular shading can cause the so-called zebra effect on the plants. This effect is caused by uneven light distribution, which negatively impacts plant growth. To prevent this effect, the film 22, for example, is designed to be diffuse. By integrating silver nanoparticles into the film 22, the incoming light is evenly scattered. This optimizes the light incidence on the plants, avoids the zebra effect, and ensures uniform illumination that promotes plant growth.

[0029] Fig. 1A shows a perspective side view of a modification of Fig.1, in which the PV modules 31 are larger and positioned lower. The lower suspended film system 22, which is attached below the lattice girders 16 using the weight element 20, creates, as already described, the actual roof above the cultivation space 46. This allows for larger dimensions of the PV modules 31, which are equipped with a tilting mechanism 24 in the lattice girders 16. In simpler designs, the PV modules 30 can also be permanently installed, whereby they cannot be moved horizontally but can still be tilted to ensure the shading function. In addition, engagement elements (hooks) not shown in detail are attached to the upper and lower edges of the PV modules 30, which allow the PV modules 30 to be locked in a horizontal position and linked together. This offers additional protection in the event of storms or extreme weather conditions, as the PV modules 30 are firmly connected to one another.In this version, the cover films 32 can also run over the cable 37 to provide additional protection.

[0030] Fig. Figure 1B shows a schematic top view of the greenhouse with the 30 PV modules mounted on it. These modules are arranged in parallel rows to the roof surface to ensure even distribution across the greenhouse roof. The number of PV modules 30 depends primarily on the climate zone in which the greenhouse is located. In temperate zones, an installation of two modules per 3 meters, with a height of 30 cm and a variable spacing of 1 meter, has proven to be effective. In arid regions, more modules can be used as needed.

[0031] The PV modules 30 are attached with single-arm brackets 34, which can be flexibly moved along the rails 26. Fig.1B shows how the bracket 34 engages the rail 26 via a drive train with a drive wheel 40 (not described in detail). An electric motor housed in a housing 38 drives this drive train, thus enabling the movement of the PV modules 30 along the rail. Although a simple embodiment is shown here, the use of a wheel hub motor would be more advantageous, as this would require less space and create additional room for additional functions of the single-arm brackets 34. These additional functions would include being able to position the PV modules 30 vertically higher or lower.

[0032] Alternatively, the PV modules 30 can also be individually adjustable via a mechanical cable system with a coupling mechanism as already mentioned, wherein the coupling mechanism is designed as a locking coupling, clamp coupling or spring-loaded locking mechanism in order to adjust the position of each PV module 30 independently of one another on the rails 26.

[0033] The arrangement of the PV modules 30 ensures optimal light regulation and shading, while their south-facing orientation ensures maximum solar radiation. Not shown, but important, is an electromechanical rotation mechanism 36 (see Fig. 3), which is attached to the single-arm brackets. This mechanism allows the tilt angle of the PV modules 30 to be adjusted to the position of the sun and also allows the modules to be positioned vertically.

[0034] The PV modules 30 are typically dark, often black, which is a disadvantage because dark colors absorb more heat. This is problematic in arid climates, as the additional heating can significantly impair the efficiency of the PV modules 30. White PV modules 30 would be more advantageous in these regions because they reflect more light and absorb less heat. This is particularly important for shading the plants in the cultivation room 46. Another option is to combine white and transparent modules. This could both increase the amount of light reaching the plants and offer flexibility in the design of multi-layer PV modules 30. Modern PV modules are becoming increasingly thinner and lighter anyway, which favors the implementation of such multi-layer solutions.

[0035] An alternative to this is that the PV modules 30 are designed to be partially transparent, wherein the partial transparency is achieved either by a completely partially transparent structure with a photochromic layer that darkens when exposed to UV light and brightens when the UV light decreases, or by an alternating arrangement of PV elements and transparent areas within the PV modules 30.

[0036] In Fig. 1B also indicates that the PV modules 30 are tiltable.

[0037] The mounting and mobility of the PV modules 30 is determined by various factors, including the climate zone, the elevation of the greenhouse, the sun angle, and the configuration of the PV modules 30, such as their arrangement and height. These aspects play a crucial role in the design of an energy-efficient and climate-adapted greenhouse. The flexible options for controlling light and shading provided by the PV modules 30 make it possible to create optimal growing conditions for the plants while ensuring sustainable power generation. The generated electricity can be used for both cooling and CO2 capture. Example calculation:

[0038] The typical height of commercial greenhouses is usually 4 to 6 meters. This height provides good air circulation and temperature control, especially when not growing extremely tall plants. Effects on shadow casting:

[0039] The height of the greenhouse, combined with the vertical arrangement of the 30 cm high PV modules, influences the shadow cast at different sun angles. At a sun angle of 45 degrees, the shadow lengthens accordingly. Example calculation with a sun angle of 45 degrees:

[0040] Greenhouse with 4 meters height: • Total height: 4 meters (greenhouse) + 30 cm (PV modules) = 4.30 meters. • Shadow length at a sun angle of 45°: Shadow length=4.30 m×tan 45°=4.30 m

[0041] Greenhouse with 6 meters height: • Total height: 6 meters (greenhouse) + 30 cm (PV modules) = 6.30 meters. • Shadow length at a sun angle of 45°: Shadow length=6.30 m×tan 45°=6.30 m

[0042] Conclusion on shadow length: • At a height of 4.30 meters, the shadow length is approximately 4.30 meters. • At a height of 6.30 meters, the shadow length is approximately 6.30 meters.

[0043] This information helps to precisely plan the light and shade distribution in the greenhouse and ensure that the number and positioning of the 30 PV modules are optimally matched to plant growth. It is also important to consider that the angle of the sun changes throughout the day and varies depending on the geographical location and the time of year. In the morning and evening, the sun is lower in the sky, resulting in a longer shadow, while it reaches its highest point at midday.

[0044] In regions like Germany, the angle of the sun at midday is about 60 to 70 degrees in summer, but only about 15 to 30 degrees in winter. Near the equator, the angle of the sun at midday can reach almost 90 degrees.

[0045] These changes must be taken into account when planning the PV modules 30 and the shading of the cultivation room 46 in order to ensure uniform lighting and optimal growth conditions.

[0046] Fig. Figure 2 shows an alternative embodiment in which the PV modules 30 are arranged transversely to the suspended films 22 and oriented at a 90-degree angle to direct sunlight. The schematic front view of the greenhouse shows the PV modules 30 mounted thereon. The PV modules 30 are mounted in two parallel rows on rails 26 that run along the roofline. Each row is 3 meters wide, and the PV modules 30 are evenly distributed, allowing for efficient use of the available space.

[0047] Below the roof line, the diagonally stretched foils 22 are visible, which are weighted by rollers 20. The uprights 12, together with the cross beams 16, form the roof structure. In comparison to Fig. 1, this variant represents a simpler and more cost-effective embodiment. However, due to the transverse suspensions of the foils 22, it is not possible to adjust the height of the PV modules 30.

[0048] Lateral connecting supports 18 provide additional stability for the PV modules 30. Due to their low height of 30 cm, the PV modules 30 are lightweight and offer only a small surface area for wind attack. Optionally, a covering film 32 can be stretched over the connecting supports 18. Alternatively, the film could also be stretched directly over the PV modules 30 and attached to their skyward-facing narrow side 42. This greenhouse construction is particularly suitable for temperate climates. However, it would be conceivable to install additional Fig.1 described options should also be integrated into this version.

[0049] Fig. Figure 3 shows a side view of the greenhouse, showing the PV modules 30 and their mounting system in detail. The PV modules 30 are attached to single-arm brackets 34, which allow flexible movement along the rails 26.

[0050] The bracket 34 engages the rail 26 via a wheel 40 with a wheel hub motor. Wheel hub motors are used in the brackets 34 to efficiently move the PV modules 30. These motors offer a flat design and are space-saving because all required components are integrated.

[0051] Additionally, an electromechanical rotation mechanism 36 is attached to the bracket 34. This mechanism enables three-dimensional adjustment of the PV modules 30: 1. Tilt angle (alpha): The PV modules 30 can be dynamically adjusted in their tilt angle to the position of the sun to ensure optimal solar irradiation. 2. Vertical adjustment (gamma): The PV modules 30 can be moved vertically, i.e., up and down. This is possible because the film 22 stretched beneath the PV modules 30 allows sufficient freedom of movement. 3. Horizontal adjustment (beta): The PV modules 30 can also be moved horizontally along the rail 26 to regulate the incidence of light.

[0052] The 30 PV modules can thus be adjusted in height, rotated, and moved to dynamically align with the position of the sun. This creates optimal climatic conditions for the plants' needs.

[0053] As already mentioned, sensors (not shown in the drawing) are located in the soil 17 of the greenhouse unit 10 or in the immediate vicinity of the plants. These sensors measure not only soil moisture but also parameters such as light quantity, light intensity, and the angle of incidence of the light. These sensors are connected to a control unit that controls the rotation mechanism 36 and the drive 40 to position the PV modules 30 in the optimal position. This enables precise control of sunlight or shading to provide the plants with the best possible growing conditions.

[0054] In the greenhouse's cultivation room 46, different sections with different planting requirements can be set up. This allows for the alternating cultivation of different vegetables that require specific conditions in terms of light, shade, and, if necessary, cooling. The option of stretching a film between the vertical posts 12 can be used as a room divider to create different climate zones within the greenhouse. This allows different vegetables to be grown alternately, and appropriate shading and cooling systems can be activated according to requirements.

[0055] The individual adjustability of each PV module 30 not only ensures adaptation to the specific requirements of the plants, but also enables maximum sunlight absorption when the PV modules 30 are aligned directly towards the sun. At the same time, greater shading leads to higher power generation by the PV modules 30, which is beneficial for the overall system. Optimization of power production and protection of the PV modules 30 can be further achieved by the aforementioned cover film 32, which is stretched over the modules either via cables 37 or alternatively via rails. This creates an enclosed area in which cooling of the PV modules 30 is also possible. Since the temperature of the PV modules 30 is negatively correlated with their power generation, the cooling effect can further increase their efficiency. A lower operating temperature of the PV modules 30 leads to a higher power yield.

[0056] The individual control of the PV modules 30 allows for flexible response to the requirements of each section of the cultivation area 46. Each PV module 30 can be completely retracted if the light output is too low and full sunlight is desired. Thanks to the vertical and narrow design of the modules, they can be arranged closely together laterally, so they do not obstruct the light inlet. This compact mobility allows the PV modules 30 to be used efficiently while ensuring maximum sunlight on the plants when the modules are not needed. The invention is based on the following considerations:

[0057] Plant cultivation in modern greenhouses must be adapted to the climatic challenges of the future. In arid regions and Mediterranean climates, vegetable cultivation and greenhouse operation are becoming increasingly difficult. High temperatures and strong solar radiation, which can reach up to 1000 W / m² during the day, are making it increasingly difficult for greenhouses to survive. 2 Achieving these goals requires precise control of light and temperature conditions. Even in temperate zones, where distinct seasons prevail, rising temperatures and longer periods of sunshine lead to more difficult growing conditions. The necessary cooling is energy-intensive, resource-consuming, and counterproductive in terms of greenhouse gas reduction using conventional methods. Therefore, not only cooling is required, but also effective shading to protect the plants from excessive solar radiation.

[0058] For plants like lettuce, tomatoes, and cucumbers, finding the right balance between light and temperature is crucial under these conditions. Excessive heat and direct sunlight lead to yield losses and slowed growth, making the efficient use of shading systems and PV modules for cooling and light regulation essential in all climates. Example temperature requirements for plant growth:

[0059] Vegetables have specific temperature requirements for optimal growth: • Lettuce thrives at daytime temperatures between 15 and 20 °C and nighttime temperatures between 10 and 15 °C. Higher temperatures can encourage bolting. • Tomatoes prefer warmer conditions with daytime temperatures of 21 to 27°C and nighttime temperatures of 15 to 18°C. Extreme temperatures above 30°C can affect fruit production. • Cucumbers require daytime temperatures between 24 and 30 °C and nighttime temperatures of 18 to 21 °C. They are particularly sensitive to temperatures below 12 °C.

[0060] Source: “Vegetable farming,” Wikipedia, accessed October 12, 2024.

[0061] Optimal light is also important for plants.

[0062] The following table shows the light requirements of plants in greenhouses, measured as Daily Light Integral (DLI) in mol / m 2 / Day: plant Light requirement (DU in mol / m 2 / Day) Remarks tomatoes 20-30 High light intensity for optimal fruit formation. Low light reduces yield. cucumbers 25-30 High light requirements. A lack of light negatively impacts crop yields. lettuce 12-17 Lower light requirements. Too much light can cause stress and promote bolting. paprika 20-25 High light requirements for strong fruits. Lack of light leads to delayed ripening. Eggplants 22-28 High light requirements, especially during flowering. Low light reduces yield. Herbs 10-15 Medium to low light requirements. Herbs like basil prefer less direct sunlight.

[0063] Source: The information on light requirements is based on various studies and information on Daily Light Integral (DLI) and the specific requirements of the respective plants, as noted in the entries on vegetables and plants in Wikipedia (as of October 2024).

[0064] The present invention provides a greenhouse that can be flexibly adapted to different climatic conditions and used in various climate zones. The PV modules 30 perform a dual function: They provide shade and generate energy, which is primarily used for cooling. • The PV modules 30 are mounted on movable brackets 34 that can be moved along rails 26. This allows for dynamic and individual adjustment of light transmission and shading as needed. The flexible arrangement of the PV modules 30 parallel to the roof membrane 22 achieves optimal control of the lighting conditions and efficient use of space in the greenhouse. • A key feature of the invention is the individual controllability of the PV modules 30. Soil sensors measure important parameters such as soil moisture, temperature and light intensity and enable automatic adjustment of the module positions to ensure optimal growth conditions. • A special film with silver nanoparticles prevents the zebra effect and ensures even light dispersion, ensuring better illumination of the plants. An additional protective film protects the modules from weather influences such as wind and dirt, increasing their efficiency and lifespan. • This innovative combination of flexible photovoltaic technology, intelligent control and protection system enables efficient climate control and energy generation, especially in regions with extreme climatic conditions. List of reference symbols: 10 greenhouse units 12 stands 14 Foundation 15 floor supports 16 cross members 17 Floor 18 connecting beams 20 weight elements / tube 21 wall element 22 film strips 24 Tilting mechanism 26 rails 28 Suspension line 30 PV modules 31 larger PV module 32 Cover film 34 Single-arm holder 36 Electromechanical rotating mechanism 37 rope 38 Housing for electric motor 40 drive wheel 42 “sky-facing narrow side” 44 wheels 46 Cultural Area QUOTES CONTAINED IN THE DESCRIPTION

[0000] This list of documents submitted by the applicant was generated automatically and is included solely for the convenience of the reader. This list is not part of the German patent or utility model application. The DPMA assumes no liability for any errors or omissions. Cited patent literature

[0000] DE 202010000274U1

[0008] DE 202017000843U1

[0009] WO 2023238057A1

[0010]

Claims

[1] Greenhouse unit (10) comprising PV modules (30) for shading and power generation, a supporting structure made of uprights (12) connected by floor supports (15) and lattice girders (16), the supporting structure together with a suspended film roof (22) arranged entirely below the lattice girders (16) and lateral wall elements (21) forming a cultivation space (46), characterized by that the PV modules (30) above the foil roof are attached or mounted on the supporting structure (16) independently of the latter. [2] Greenhouse unit according to claim 1, characterized by that the PV modules (30) are rotatably mounted in the lattice girders (16) and are fastened via laterally mounted pins which are arranged either in the middle or at the lower end of the PV modules (30) and are received in corresponding bearing bushes or holders within the lattice girders (16) for tilting and rotating the modules. [3] Greenhouse unit according to claim 2, characterized by that the PV modules (30) can be rotated into a completely horizontal position, are adjacent to one another in this position and are provided with hooks for stable fixation in the horizontal position. [4] Greenhouse unit according to claim 1, characterized by that the PV modules (30) are individually adjustable along a rail (26) fastened to the supporting structure (16) by means of a cable system with a coupling mechanism, the coupling mechanism being designed as a locking coupling, clamping coupling or spring-loaded locking mechanism for positioning each module on the rails (26). [5] Greenhouse unit according to claim 1, characterized bythat the PV modules (30) have laterally arranged single-armed holders (34), to each of which a drive wheel (40) with an integrated hub motor is fastened, which engages in the rails (26) fastened to the supporting structure (16) and makes the holders (34) movable in a horizontal beta direction. [6] Greenhouse unit according to claim 1 or 5, characterized by that the single-armed holders (34) are arranged laterally on the PV modules (30) and are equipped with rotatable bearings (36) for adjusting the PV modules (30) in a vertical alpha direction and for height adjustment in the gamma direction. [7] Greenhouse unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized bythat the film roof (22) can be opened to ventilate the culture space (46) and is provided with a light-scattering coating containing silver nanoparticles, thereby converting the incident light into diffuse light and thus ensuring uniform illumination of the culture space (46). [8] Greenhouse unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that sensors in the soil (17) or in the immediate vicinity of the plants measure parameters such as soil moisture, temperature and light intensity and are fed back to the control of the PV modules (30). [9] Greenhouse unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the PV modules (30) are protected from environmental influences such as wind, dirt, sand and snow by a cover film (32) running over ropes (37), which also creates an enclosed area that allows cooling of the PV modules (30). [10] Greenhouse unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the PV modules (30) are designed in a vertical orientation to absorb light from both sides, are manufactured in a light-reflecting white design and are stackable parallel to one another in the horizontal direction. [11] Greenhouse unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized by that the PV modules (30) are partially transparent either by a completely partially transparent structure with a photochromic layer that darkens when exposed to UV light and brightens again when the UV light decreases, or by an alternating arrangement of PV elements and transparent areas within the modules.

Images