Modular docking system for bidirectional energy and data transmission

Abstract

Modular docking system (100), comprising: at least one carrier rail (101) which is designed to be cascaded and has integrated electrical conductors (102) configured as a DC power bus (103) and as a serial data bus (104); at least one functional module (105) which can be detachably attached to the carrier rail (101) by means of a positive-locking guide element (106) via a plug connection (107); a control unit (109) configured to control the at least one function module (105) via the integrated electrical conductors (102); wherein the functional module (105) has a contact means (108) which automatically establishes an electrical connection with the integrated electrical conductors (102) of the carrier rail (101) when the functional module (105) is attached; wherein the integrated electrical conductors (102) are for bidirectional energy transmission and Data is configured between the carrier rail (101) and the functional module (105); and the automatic electrical connection is designed as a hot-pluggable connection.

Description

[0001] The present invention relates to a modular docking system for functional modules, which enables bidirectional energy and data transmission.

[0002] Modular systems are gaining increasing importance in various technical fields because they offer flexibility, scalability, and adaptability to different requirements. Modular approaches are particularly desirable in applications requiring dynamic configuration, such as plant lighting, to enable optimal adaptation to changing growth phases or specific needs.

[0003] Conventional docking systems for functional modules often involve separate mechanical fasteners and electrical connections. This can necessitate individual wiring for each module, increasing installation effort and complicating maintenance or reconfiguration. The need for additional tools or manual handling of separate connectors for electrical contact significantly hinders module replacement. Such systems also often require a complete power shutdown before removing or attaching modules to prevent electrical damage or safety hazards. Furthermore, integrating data lines for module control and monitoring frequently requires additional interfaces or separate wiring, further complicating the system architecture.The reliability of electrical connections can be affected by oxidation or mechanical stress, especially with frequent coupling and uncoupling.

[0004] Therefore, there is a need for an improved docking system that overcomes the disadvantages of known solutions and enables more efficient, reliable and flexible integration and handling of functional modules in modular systems.

[0005] The present invention relates to a modular docking system comprising at least one cascadeable carrier rail and integrated electrical conductors configured as a DC power bus and a serial data bus. The system further includes at least one functional module that can be detachably attached to the carrier rail by means of a positive-locking guide element and a plug connection. A control unit is configured to control the at least one functional module via the integrated electrical conductors. The functional module has a contact element that automatically establishes an electrical connection with the integrated electrical conductors of the carrier rail when the functional module is attached.The integrated electrical conductors are configured for bidirectional power and data transmission between the carrier rail and the functional module, and the automatic electrical connection is designed as a hot-pluggable connection. This configuration enables flexible, safe, and tool-free integration and control of modules, significantly improving the system's adaptability and ease of use.

[0006] A plug connection within the meaning of the application is understood to be a connection in which a projection of a first component is inserted into a corresponding receptacle of a second component, so that a retaining effect is achieved by insertion. The plug connection is preferably releasable multiple times and can be produced without the use of a tool, solely by manual insertion and removal.

[0007] A cascadable support rail is a rail that allows multiple rail sections to be connected in series to create a continuous cable system. Several support rails can be connected in series or in parallel. The terms "series-connectable," "expandable," or "connectable in series" can also be used.

[0008] For the purposes of this application, a hot-pluggable connection is understood to be an electrical connection designed in such a way that a functional module can be connected to or disconnected from a carrier rail or bus system during operation of the system without interrupting the function of the overall system, such as power supply or data communication, or causing damage to the components involved.

[0009] According to a further aspect of the present invention, the positive-locking guide element has a T-slot profile or a tongue-and-groove profile. This ensures robust and precise mechanical guidance of the modules.

[0010] According to another aspect, the support rail has at least one electrical contact surface in the area of ​​the guide element, which is designed to receive the functional module. Furthermore, the at least one functional module includes an adapter base on which the contact element is arranged. The adapter base is designed to be received into the guide element of the support rail, and the contact element is designed to establish an electrical connection with the electrical contact surface. This ensures a defined and reliable electrical interface through dedicated contact surfaces and an integrated adapter base.

[0011] According to another aspect, the contact element of the at least one functional module and the electrical contact surface of the carrier rail are designed such that the contact is implemented as a wipe contact. This improves the reliability of the electrical contact by removing oxidation layers during the insertion process.

[0012] In the context of this application, a wipe contact is understood to be an electrical contact element in which, during the connection process, relative movement occurs between a contact surface and a corresponding mating contact surface. This relative movement wipes away oxide or dirt layers from the contact surfaces, thus achieving a reliable electrical connection. A wipe contact can be implemented, for example, by a spring-loaded or magnetically held contact element that, when placed against the mating contact surface, is moved along or across it.

[0013] According to another aspect, the contact element is configured to form a self-locking connection, ensuring secure positioning of at least one functional module on the support rail. This guarantees stable and secure mechanical fixation of the functional module, even in dynamic environments.

[0014] A self-locking connection is a mechanical connection in which, after two connecting elements are joined, a positive or non-positive locking mechanism engages without manual intervention, thus securing the connection in the locked position. The locking action can be achieved through spring-loaded elements, detents, ball detents, or similar mechanisms.

[0015] Another aspect is that the contact element is designed as a magnetic or spring-loaded contact element. This facilitates the effortless and automatic locking and unlocking of the modules.

[0016] In another respect, the control unit is configured to automatically detect the type and / or number of functional modules that can be attached to the mounting rail and adaptively adjusts the power supply and / or operating parameters accordingly. This optimizes system performance and energy efficiency by adapting to the specific configuration of the connected modules.

[0017] Another aspect is that the control unit is configured to automatically address at least one functional module upon installation using a hardware-based or software-based identification mechanism. This simplifies system setup and management by eliminating the need for manual module addressing.

[0018] According to another aspect, at least one functional module is selected from the group comprising a lighting module, a sensor module, a fan module, a valve module, a camera module, and a control unit module. This expands the system's versatility and applicability to a wide range of functions beyond lighting.

[0019] Another aspect of the modular docking system is its multiple support rails connected by modular connectors. This allows for large-scale and expandable system installations suitable for various spatial requirements.

[0020] According to another aspect, at least one functional module includes a temperature sensor configured to reduce or shut down the module's power output in case of overheating. This increases operational reliability and extends the service life of the functional modules by preventing overheating.

[0021] Another aspect is that the support rail is designed to accommodate functional modules of varying lengths. This offers greater flexibility in module selection and system design.

[0022] Another aspect is that the support rail is extendable or retractable. This allows the system to be flexibly adapted to changing spatial conditions.

[0023] In addition, the electrical connection between the at least one functional module and the mounting rail is designed to be splash-proof. This ensures reliable operation and safety in damp environments. An electrical connection is considered splash-proof if it meets the requirements for protection class IP X4 or higher according to IEC 60529 / DIN EN 60529. This means that no harmful water damage from splashing water from any direction is permitted.

[0024] Another aspect of the modular docking system is that it comprises a variety of functional modules, with the control unit configured to group these modules into zones and control them individually. This enables precise and localized control of functions, thereby optimizing resource utilization and performance in specific areas.

[0025] A group refers to a grouping of several functionally or electrically related elements, such as multiple functional modules, that are controlled or operated together. The term generally describes a functional or electrical unit. A zone refers to a spatially defined area within a system, module, housing, or carrier rail in which specific elements (functional modules) are arranged. The term primarily describes a spatial or geometric subdivision.

[0026] According to another aspect, at least one functional module includes a lighting module. This focuses the system's application on lighting and enables specialized lighting solutions.

[0027] According to another aspect, the control unit is configured to control the light intensity of the lighting module using pulse width modulation or constant current control. This allows for precise and efficient control of the light output for optimal adjustment of the illuminance.

[0028] According to another aspect, the lighting module comprises at least two spectrally different LED channels that can be controlled independently. This allows for dynamic adjustment of the light spectrum for specific applications, such as optimizing plant growth stages.

[0029] Another aspect is that the lighting module includes non-volatile memory containing identifying or functional parameters that can be read by the control unit. This facilitates the automatic configuration and monitoring of the lighting modules and ensures optimal and consistent performance.

[0030] In another respect, the control unit is configured to control the light intensity and / or spectral composition of the lighting modules in the groups or zones for multidimensional spatial control. This enables highly sophisticated and granular control of the lighting across a spatial volume, facilitating advanced applications such as 3D light mapping.

[0031] In another respect, the lighting module incorporates light source technologies selected from the group encompassing quantum dot LEDs (QD-LEDs), micro-LEDs, mini-LEDs, OLEDs, laser diodes, and SHG sources. This ensures the system's compatibility with state-of-the-art and future lighting technologies, thereby increasing efficiency and performance.

[0032] Another aspect is that the control unit is configured to monitor the voltage drop across the integrated electrical conductors and adaptively adjust the power or the number of active function modules. This ensures a stable power supply and system reliability, especially in larger or dynamic configurations.

[0033] For a better understanding of the present invention, it will be explained in more detail with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the following figures. Identical parts are designated with the same reference numerals and component designations. Furthermore, some features or combinations of features from the different embodiments shown and described may in themselves represent independent, inventive, or inventive solutions.

[0034] They show: Fig. Figure 1 shows a highly simplified schematic representation of the modular docking system according to the present invention according to one exemplary aspect; Fig. Figure 2 shows a highly simplified, schematic, side view of the support rail with the guide element according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 3 shows a highly simplified, schematic representation of the functional module with adapter foot according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 4 shows a highly simplified, schematic top view of the guide element of the support rail according to the present invention; Fig. Figure 5 shows a highly simplified, schematic representation of the modular docking system according to one aspect of the present invention; Fig. Figure 6 shows a highly simplified, schematic representation of the modular docking system according to another aspect of the present invention.

[0035] The components in the figures are not to scale; instead, emphasis is placed on illustrating various preferred embodiments of the invention. Furthermore, the figures are highly simplified and schematic to explain the core concept of the invention.

[0036] Fig. Figure 1 illustrates a modular docking system 100 with at least one carrier rail 101. Integrated electrical conductors 102 are embedded in this carrier rail 101. These conductors 102 serve to transmit a DC power bus 103, which includes a power supply line 103a and a ground line 103b, as well as a serial data bus 104. The serial data bus 104 can use a fieldbus protocol such as RS-485 or CAN, or a comparable protocol, to ensure robust and standardized communication. The serial data bus 104 can, for example, be implemented as an RS-485 twisted pair with AWG 24 and a termination resistance of 120 Ω, enabling a bus length of up to 10 m.

[0037] The support rail 101 is designed so that several functional modules 105a, 105b, 105c can be detachably attached to it. Fig. Figure 1 shows three function modules attached to the carrier rail 101 as examples. Each of these function modules 105a, 105b, 105c represents a unit that is supplied with power and communicates with data via the integrated conductors 102 of the carrier rail 101. The entire system is controlled by a control unit 109, which is connected to both the serial data bus 104 and the DC power bus 103. The illustration shows how the control unit 109 exchanges both power and data bidirectionally with the function modules 105a, 105b, 105c via the carrier rail 101. The function modules can be attached and detached without tools, and the electrical connection is designed as a hot-pluggable connection, which allows the modules to be connected or disconnected during operation. In particular, the electrical connection between the at least one function module 105 and the carrier rail 101 is splash-proof.

[0038] A coordinate system with X, Y and Z axes is shown to illustrate the spatial orientation of the components.

[0039] The support rail (101) can accommodate functional modules (105) of varying lengths (along the y-axis shown); for example, light bars of different lengths, such as transverse or longitudinal bars, can be used for variable configurations to meet the specific requirements of the application. Furthermore, the support rail can be extendable or collapsible. This allows for the flexible attachment of additional functional modules to the support rail or for the support rail to be collapsed for a compact form.

[0040] The control unit 109 is configured to divide a large number of function modules 105 into groups or zones and to control these groups or zones individually, enabling precise and flexible distribution of light or function. Furthermore, the control unit 109 is designed to monitor the voltage drop on the integrated electrical conductors that supply power to the function modules. Based on this monitoring, the control unit 109 can adaptively adjust the power or the number of active function modules 105 to ensure an optimal and stable power supply throughout the entire system.

[0041] When a function module is attached, the control unit 109 advantageously automatically detects the type and / or number of function modules 105 mounted on the carrier rail 101. Based on this detection, the control unit 109 adaptively adjusts the power supply and / or the operating parameters of the modules. Furthermore, each function module 105 is automatically addressed upon attachment using a hardware-based or software-based identification mechanism, which serves for automatic detection and addressing, thus ensuring seamless integration into the control system. This automatic addressing can be achieved through various methods, such as resistor coding, reading an EEPROM memory, or automatic address assignment via the bus.The automatic address assignment of the function modules 105 by the control unit 109 can use an address range of 1 to 255 via an EEPROM ID, whereby a bus timeout of 500 ms can be implemented to monitor communication integrity.

[0042] Fig. Figure 2 shows a detailed side view of the support rail 101, a component of the modular docking system. The support rail 101 has a positive-locking guide element 106, which is shown here as a T-slot profile 110, to which the functional module can be attached. Alternatively, the guide element 106 can have a tongue-and-groove profile. The profile serves to mechanically and precisely receive and guide a functional module (not shown in this figure). The height of the support rail is denoted by "h".

[0043] The electrical conductors 102 integrated within the support rail 101 for power supply and data communication are positioned such that they are connected to at least one electrical contact surface 111 in the guide element 106. The electrical contact surface 111 is formed in the area of ​​the guide element 106 and serves to accommodate the functional module 105.

[0044] In the side view shown, a contact surface 111 is visible, but several contact surfaces may well be arranged along the length of the support rail (see Fig. 4) The electrical contact surface 111 comprises, by way of example, three contact fields 112a, 112b, 112c, which provide the power supply, the ground connection and the data supply. These contact fields are dimensioned and arranged in such a way that they establish a secure electrical connection when a functional module is inserted and at the same time prevent incorrect polarity or a short circuit.

[0045] Fig. Figure 3 presents a schematic sectional view of an exemplary functional module 105. This functional module 105 is an interchangeable unit that can be connected to the modular docking system. It has an adapter foot 113, which is mechanically shaped to engage precisely with the positive-locking guide element 106, such as the T-slot profile 110 of the support rail. The adapter foot 113 thus corresponds to the guide element of the support rail and ensures defined alignment and a stable mechanical connection. The functional modules 105 can have a standard width of 100 mm, while the width of the adapter foot 113 can be adjusted from 40 mm to 120 mm to accommodate different module sizes.

[0046] A contact element 108 is attached to the underside of the adapter base 113. When the functional module 105 is attached, this contact element automatically establishes an electrical connection with the integrated electrical conductors 102 of the carrier rail 101. One or more contact elements can be provided; advantageously, the number of contact elements corresponds to the number of contact fields in the guide element 106. In particular, the contact element 108 is designed to form a self-locking connection. This locking can be achieved by various mechanical mechanisms, such as spring clips, magnets, or snap-fit ​​connections, which ensure a secure position of the functional module on the carrier rail. For example, a magnetic docking mechanism with NdFeB N35 magnets (Ø 5 × 2 mm, tensile force approx. 1 N) in combination with a spring force of approximately 1.5 N can be used for the self-locking connection.

[0047] The contact elements 108 can be designed, for example, as spring-loaded contact elements such as contact springs or as magnetic contacts and are intended to establish an automatic electrical connection with the electrical contact surface 111 when the functional module is inserted into the carrier rail. The term "automatic" refers to the fact that when the functional module is inserted into the carrier rail and the contact elements make contact with the contact springs, no further steps are required to establish a stable mechanical and electrical connection. As soon as the contact elements, such as the contact springs, come into contact with the contact fields, the electrical connection is established. This includes the connection for power supply, ground, and data communication.

[0048] Advantageously, the mounting rail features a safety device at each connection point, i.e., at each contact surface where a functional module can be attached. This device automatically limits the current flow in the event of overcurrent or overheating and resets itself automatically once the fault condition is resolved. Specifically, the safety device is designed as a PTC (Positive Temperature Coefficient) fuse. A PTC is a resistor with a positive temperature coefficient, whose resistance value increases significantly with rising temperature. This provides thermally reacting, self-healing overcurrent protection that automatically resets after an overload. Thus, each connection between the mounting rail and the functional modules is individually protected against overcurrent, eliminating the need for manual fuse replacement after a fault.To ensure safety, each connection position (contact surface) can be equipped with a PTC fuse with a rated current of 0.5 A and a response time of less than 1 second.

[0049] The functional module 105 can be attached and detached without tools, enabling quick and easy installation and maintenance. The electrical connection, established by the contact elements 108, is hot-pluggable, meaning that the module can be connected or disconnected while the system is running without affecting or interrupting the operation of other connected functional modules. The advantageous design of the plug connection also allows the functional module to be mounted on the carrier rail in any position and orientation.

[0050] Furthermore, the electrical connection can be designed as a hot-swappable connection. This allows the module to be replaced during operation, meaning it can be actively removed and replaced with another without affecting or interrupting the operation of other connected functional modules.

[0051] Advantageously, the contact element 108 of the at least one functional module 105 and the electrical contact surface 111 of the carrier rail 101 are designed such that the contact is implemented as a wipe contact. More precisely, the interaction between the adapter foot 113 of the functional module 105 and the guide element 106 of the carrier rail, together with the contact elements 108 and the electrical contact surfaces 111, results in a wipe contact that removes any oxide layers and ensures reliable electrical conductivity. The electrical contact surfaces 111 can, for example, be made of gold-plated CuZn with a gold layer thickness of 1 µm and have a width of 8 mm and a height of 2 mm, with a spring stroke of 1.2 mm provided for the wipe contact.

[0052] Fig. Figure 4 shows a top view of the underside of the support rail 101, revealing the positive-locking guide element 106, again exemplified here as a T-slot profile 110. This view illustrates the arrangement and distribution of the electrical contact surfaces 111 along the length of the support rail. The support rail 101 has a length “I” and a width “b”, as shown in the figure, not to scale.

[0053] Along the guide element 106, several electrical contact surfaces are arranged, here by way of example three contact surfaces 111a, 111b, and 111c. Each of these contact surfaces 111a, 111b, and 111c comprises, as already mentioned, three contact fields 112a, 112b, and 112c, which are intended for the transmission of power, ground, and data. The distances between these contact surfaces are also defined: the distance between contact surfaces 111a and 111b is designated d1, and the distance between 111b and 111c is designated d2. These distances d1 and d2 can be chosen to be the same or different to allow flexibility in the placement of the functional modules.

[0054] The illustration with three exemplary contact surfaces 111a, 111b, 111c demonstrates that the carrier rail 101 can have a multitude of such contact surfaces along its entire length. The contact surfaces 111 can be arranged in a grid with, for example, 80 mm spacing, with each contact surface comprising three poles for 48 V (power and voltage supply), GND (ground), and data supply. This enables the modular connection and operation of multiple functional modules at any position along the guide element. The configuration of the contact surfaces and their spacing is crucial for the tool-free and flexible attachment of the functional modules, which establish an electrical connection immediately upon contact with these surfaces.

[0055] Fig. Figure 5 shows a schematic representation of the modular docking system 100, in which a single support rail 101 is connected to a multitude of functional modules. Six functional modules 105a, 105b, 105c, 105d, 105e, and 105f are shown attached to the support rail 101 as examples. This illustration highlights the scalability and the possibility of operating several modules simultaneously on a single support rail.

[0056] The mounting rail 101 is connected to external units via separate lines. The serial data bus 104, which is integrated into the mounting rail 101, is connected to the control unit 109. This control unit 109 is responsible for the central control, addressing, and programming of the individual function modules. The control unit 109 enables individual or group control of the lighting modules via the integrated conductors.

[0057] The function modules are powered via the DC power bus 103, which is also integrated into the mounting rail 101. In this example, the DC power bus 103 is connected to a separate power supply unit 128, which provides the required DC voltage (e.g., 48V). This illustrates a possible configuration where power supply and data communication are handled by separate external units. All previously described aspects of the control unit apply equally in a configuration where power is supplied via a separate power supply unit. Furthermore, the bidirectional data transmission of the serial data bus 104 allows the firmware of the connected function modules 105 to be updated or new functions to be installed as needed.Furthermore, the system is designed for high performance data, supporting, for example, a maximum current of 15 A at 48 V DC per carrier rail 101, which corresponds to a power of approximately 720 W.

[0058] As already described, the functional modules 105a-105f can be attached and detached without tools, and their electrical connections are hot-pluggable. The system of the present invention is fundamentally flexible, and the functional modules can be, for example, lighting modules, sensor modules, fan modules, valve modules, camera modules, or control unit modules. Several functional modules of different types can be integrated into a single system.

[0059] The at least one functional module can include a temperature module, which is suitable for reducing or shutting down the power output of the functional module in case of overheating. For example, a temperature sensor can be arranged in addition to a lighting module or a sensor module. This allows overheating at a specific point in the system to be detected in a timely manner, and the relevant functional module can be temporarily or permanently shut down. The control unit receives the corresponding measured values ​​from the temperature sensor and can then control the power output (switching on or off) of the relevant functional module or all functional modules accordingly.

[0060] Fig.Figure 6 illustrates an extended configuration of the modular docking system 100, in which several carrier rails are electrically and mechanically interconnected to form a large and scalable system. This illustration shows three carrier rails, 101a, 101b, and 101c, as examples, which are cascaded together via modular connectors (not explicitly shown, but implied by the connection of the rails). The modular connectors enable the electrical and mechanical coupling of the individual carrier rails. A multitude of functional modules 105, represented here by modules 105a to 105i, are attached to these carrier rails. This demonstrates the system's ability to power and control a large number of functional modules over an extended area.

[0061] The central control and power supply for the entire extended system is provided by the control unit 109 and the separate power supply unit 128. The control unit 109 is connected to the integrated electrical conductors of the cascaded carrier rails via the serial data bus 104. The separate power supply unit 128 supplies the DC power bus 103, which is also routed through the connected carrier rails. The control unit 109 is capable of centrally controlling hundreds to thousands of functional modules, enabling its use in very large and complex systems.

[0062] As previously explained, the control unit 109 can divide the numerous function modules 105 into groups or zones and control these groups or zones individually, enabling precise and flexible distribution of light or function. Furthermore, the connection of the various mounting rails is designed in such a way that the control unit 109 can monitor the voltage drop on the integrated electrical conductors that supply power to the function modules, even with multiple mounting rails. Based on this monitoring, the control unit 109 can adaptively adjust the power or the number of active function modules 105 to ensure an optimal and stable power supply throughout the entire system.

[0063] An example of at least one functional module is a lighting module. The lighting module includes, for example, a light source technology selected from the group comprising quantum dot LEDs (QD-LEDs), micro-LEDs, mini-LEDs, OLEDs, laser diodes, and SHG sources.

[0064] Furthermore, the lighting module can comprise two spectrally distinct LED channels (for example, a blue and a red channel, or a white and a far-red channel) that can be controlled independently. The module features two groups of LEDs whose emission spectra lie in different wavelength ranges, and whose respective light emission can be adjusted independently of each other by separate electrical controls via the control unit. This allows the module to generate mixed radiation with a variable spectral composition, for example, to adjust a desired color temperature, color saturation, or spectral distribution of the emitted light.

[0065] Furthermore, the control unit can control the light intensity and / or spectral composition of the lighting modules in groups or zones for multidimensional spatial control.

[0066] Thus, a large number of lighting modules can be divided into groups or zones, whose light intensity and / or spectral composition can then be individually varied by the control unit.

[0067] Furthermore, the light intensity of the lighting module can be controlled by the control unit using pulse-width modulation or constant current control. This involves either changing the on-time of a periodic control signal (pulse-width modulation) or the operating current flowing through the lighting module (constant current control) to control the brightness of the emitted light without significantly affecting its spectral composition.

[0068] In another aspect, the lighting module includes a non-volatile memory that contains identifying or functional parameters (such as serial number, power, spectrum) of the lighting module, which can be read by the control unit.

[0069] The modular docking system of the present invention can be used in a wide variety of environments and application areas. The ability to combine multiple support rails into larger systems using modular connectors allows the system to be used, for example, in indoor farms, research facilities, or in space applications. In particular, it can be used in enclosed tents (homeboxes), industrial indoor facilities, and greenhouses in plant production. Furthermore, the system can be used in specialized crops such as aquariums or viticulture, as well as in controlled environments such as space / CEC applications, where precise control of light, sensors, and other parameters is crucial. Another advantageous application is integration into hybrid environments, for example, to enhance natural sunlight in greenhouses to create optimal growth conditions and optimize energy consumption.

[0070] In plant production, the control unit of the present invention can control not only the light intensity but also the spectral composition of the lighting modules in the groups or zones to enable precise adjustment. In particular, the control of the light intensity and / or spectral composition of lighting modules can also be carried out on a multidimensional level, for example by creating 2D or 3D PAR maps (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) to enable complete area and volume control.

[0071] The ability to individually control groups or zones of functional modules allows for the advantageous creation of different PPFD distributions. Through intelligent control of the lighting modules (intensity, spectrum, arrangement), the system is capable of generating specific, spatially varying light patterns tailored to the needs of the plants. This represents a significant advantage for efficiency and productivity in plant cultivation.

[0072] Photosynthetic photon flux density (PPFD) refers to the number of photons emitted or incident on a surface in the photosynthetically active radiation range (PAR range, typically 400 to 700 nanometers) per unit time and unit area. It is usually expressed in micromoles per square meter per second (µmol / m²). 2PPFD is specified in / s). PPFD is a key parameter for assessing light availability for photosynthetic processes and is used, particularly in plant lighting and controlled crop cultivation, to determine and control the radiant power available to plants for photosynthesis. An adapted and uniform PPFD distribution across the growing area enables homogeneous plant growth and optimized photosynthetic performance. Reference symbol list: 100 Modular Docking System 101, 101 ac carrier rail 102 integrated electrical conductors 103 DC power bus 103a Power supply 103b GND 104 serial data bus 105, 105a- i Functional module 106 positive locking guide element 107 Connector 108 Contact agents 109 Control unit 110 T-slot profile / tongue-and-groove profile 111, 111a-c electrical contact surface 112, 112a-c Contact fields 113, adapter foot 114 ac Contact 128 separate power supply h Height of the support rail b Width of the support rail Length of the support rail d1 First contact surface distance d2 Second contact surface distance

Claims

[1] Modular docking system (100), comprising: at least one carrier rail (101) which is designed to be cascaded and has integrated electrical conductors (102) configured as a DC power bus (103) and as a serial data bus (104); at least one functional module (105) which can be detachably attached to the carrier rail (101) by means of a positive-locking guide element (106) via a plug connection (107); a control unit (109) configured to control the at least one function module (105) via the integrated electrical conductors (102); wherein the functional module (105) has a contact means (108) which automatically establishes an electrical connection with the integrated electrical conductors (102) of the carrier rail (101) when the functional module (105) is attached; wherein the integrated electrical conductors (102) are for bidirectional energy transmission and Data is configured between the carrier rail (101) and the functional module (105); and the automatic electrical connection is designed as a hot-pluggable connection. [2] Modular docking system (100) according to claim 1, wherein the positive-locking guide element (106) has a T-slot profile (110) or a tongue-and-groove profile. [3] Modular docking system (100) according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the support rail (101) has at least one electrical contact surface (111) in the area of ​​the guide element (106) which is designed to receive the functional module (105); wherein the at least one functional module (105) comprises an adapter foot (113) on which the contact means (108) is arranged, and wherein the adapter foot (113) is designed to be received into the guide element (106) of the carrier rail (101) and the contact means (108) is designed to establish an electrical connection with the electrical contact surface (111). [4] Modular docking system (100) according to one of claims 2 or 3, wherein the contact means (108) of the at least one functional module (105) and the electrical contact surface (111) of the carrier rail (101) are designed such that the contacting is carried out as a wipe contact. [5] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact means (108) is configured to form a self-locking connection which ensures a secure positioning of the at least one functional module (105) on the carrier rail (101). [6] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the contact means (108) is designed as a magnetic or spring-loaded contact means. [7] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (109) is configured to automatically detect the type and / or number of the at least one functional module (105) attachable to the carrier rail (101) and to adaptively adjust the power supply and / or operating parameters accordingly. [8] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (109) is configured to automatically address the at least one functional module (105) upon attachment by means of a hardware-based or software-based identification mechanism. [9] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one functional module (105) is selected from the group comprising a lighting module, a sensor module, a fan module, a valve module, a camera module and a control unit module. [10] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of support rails (101) which are connected to each other by means of modular connectors (124). [11] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least one functional module (105) comprises a temperature sensor configured to reduce or shut off the power output of the functional module (105) in case of overheating. [12] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support rail (101) is designed to accommodate functional modules (105) of different lengths. [13] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the support rail (101) is extendable or collapsible. [14] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the electrical connection between the at least one functional module (105) and the carrier rail (101) is designed to be splash-proof. [15] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, comprising a plurality of functional modules (105), wherein the control unit (109) is configured to divide the plurality of functional modules (105) into groups or zones and to control these groups or zones individually. [16] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims wherein the at least one functional module (105) comprises a lighting module. [17] Modular docking system (100) according to claim 16, wherein the control unit (109) is configured to control the light intensity of the light module by means of pulse width modulation or constant current control. [18] Modular docking system (100) according to one of claims 16 or 17, wherein the lighting module comprises at least two spectrally different LED channels which can be controlled independently. [19] Modular docking system (100) according to one of claims 16-18, wherein the light module comprises a non-volatile memory (127) containing identifying or functional parameters of the light module which can be read by the control unit (109). [20] Modular docking system (100) according to claim 15 and according to one of claims 16 - 19, wherein the control unit (109) is configured to control the light intensity and / or spectral composition of the lighting modules in the groups or zones for multidimensional spatial control. [21] Modular docking system (100) according to one of claims 16-20, wherein the lighting module comprises light source technologies selected from the group consisting of quantum dot LEDs (QD-LEDs), micro-LEDs, mini-LEDs, OLEDs, laser diodes and SHG sources. [22] Modular docking system (100) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein the control unit (109) is configured to monitor the voltage drop on the integrated electrical conductors (102) and adaptively adjusts the power or the number of active functional modules (105).

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