Energy and hydrometric control of horticultural greenhouses

Abstract

The invention relates to a system and a method for the energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse. The present invention proposes a perfect and complementary arrangement of various energy sources while optimizing them. The decrease in the use of fossil energy is significantly reduced, thereby making it possible to achieve carbon neutrality, regardless of the season and / or climate, and the outdoor CO2 becomes a usable and manageable fertilizer source. In particular, the invention optimizes the use of heat pumps and other energy sources, preferably alternative energy sources such as hydraulic, wind, solar, geothermal, and biofuel energy, or a mixture of these energies.

Description

[0001] ENERGY AND HYDROMETRIC CONTROL OF HORTICULTURAL GREENS

[0002] This patent application claims priority from French patent applications no. FR 2 300 960 filed on February 2, 2023, and no. FR 2 302 817 filed on March 24, 2023, the content of these applications being introduced here by reference.

[0003] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0004] The present invention relates to an energy and / or hydrometry control system in the field of greenhouse cultivation, in particular for horticultural greenhouses for market gardening production.

[0005] TECHNOLOGICAL BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0006] Climate change, the average rise in temperatures and the harmful effects it causes are now known and recognized by a vast majority of civilians and recognized among the scientific community. It is recognized that rising temperatures are accompanied by peaks of extreme heat. It is recognized that the additional energy accumulated in our atmosphere pumps much more humidity into our oceans and lakes, this humidity occasionally transforms into violent phenomena but, in general, the humidity level is increasing in several regions of the globe. It is recognized that climate change is largely linked to human activities and its great propensity to use fossil energy, which energy is the main source of GHG emissions, notably carbon dioxide (CO2).

[0007] It is also recognized that agricultural activities are greatly linked to the climate. Any change brings new challenges and sometimes insurmountable constraints. It goes without saying that open-field agriculture is more affected by these changes. However, production under protection (greenhouses or other) is also affected, and the current climate trend means that new technologies will be required. Rising outdoor temperatures have a direct impact on the indoor temperature of greenhouses. Rising outdoor humidity also has a direct effect on the indoor climate of the greenhouse and on plant production. Too high humidity can prevent plants from breathing, reduce the efficiency of photosynthesis, and promote the development of diseases, fungi, etc.Since CO2 is an essential element for plants, it is recognized that the only (likely) positive aspect of climate change is the increase in CO2 concentration, which promotes accelerated plant growth. But how can we take advantage of this and how can we consume more than we generate?

[0008] Paradoxically, it is recognized that a greenhouse regularly needs a heating system in order to maintain the temperature at an optimum level and to avoid the dew point. In the current context, heating is often linked to the consumption of fossil energy and therefore CO2. The present invention addresses this problem by minimizing the input of fossil energy.

[0009] For over 50 years, greenhouse farming has used simple and natural ventilation methods in various forms, types of openings, and mechanisms. In the current and future context, traditional greenhouses equipped with natural ventilation will quickly reach their limit and become less and less effective.

[0010] Greenhouse manufacturers and the growers who use them therefore face a major challenge. How to produce fruits and vegetables continuously in a context of evident climate change? How to produce efficiently, how to contribute to slowing the rise in temperatures, how to reduce the carbon footprint, how to reduce the use of fossil fuels, how to manufacture and design greenhouses that provide the required climate for plants? These are pertinent questions requiring action and solutions, leading to the invention presented here.

[0011] Since refrigeration (internal temperature control) through natural means is increasingly inappropriate or insufficient, it is necessary to turn to mechanized methods. Mechanized methods equal energy, equal increased CO2, and certainly increased production costs. The challenge, therefore, is to reinvent the typical greenhouse, as well as its components, in order to achieve the best growing environment without adding to the existing climate problems.

[0012] The first element to consider is the internal clearance height of the greenhouses. Naturally, the ambient air will rise while gaining in temperature. Some excess energy accumulates at the peak of the greenhouse and can be managed at this level. A ridge height of 9m will provide a gradient of 10°C between the ground and the ridge of the greenhouse. Increased height and volume must be considered when designing a modern greenhouse. When temperatures rise (inside and outside), it is very likely to reach a point where the enthalpy (internal energy) of the outside air is greater than the enthalpy of the inside air. At this point, natural cooling mechanisms no longer work and it is definitively necessary to switch to mechanized means. Conventional cooling systems consist of misters or evaporative panels located on a wall of the greenhouse or in a mixing chamber.The air passing through these panels drops in temperature but its relative humidity increases significantly. In a context where the outside air is increasingly warm and humid, this type of purely adiabatic system quickly becomes ineffective.

[0013] The first alternative to direct adiabatic cooling is the use of refrigeration units. Although functional when well designed, these units are very energy-intensive.

[0014] A second alternative is the use of heat pumps, also known as thermopumps, with or without energy storage. This solution is interesting, but in its current form and use, it is incomplete and contributes little to reducing CO2 levels. Furthermore, heat pumps can still be energy-intensive if they are misused or if the heat pump's operating parameters are not optimized.

[0015] SUBJECT OF THE INVENTION

[0016] The present invention provides a solution to the stated problems. The invention relates to a system and method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse

[0017] The present invention proposes a perfect and complementary arrangement of the various energy sources while optimizing them. The reduction in the use of fossil energy is significantly reduced, thus making it possible to achieve carbon neutrality, regardless of the season and / or climate, and the external CO2 becomes a usable and manageable source of fertilizer. In fact, the invention optimizes the use of heat pumps and other energy sources.

[0018] Greenhouse cooling can be done in two phases. The first cooling phase is a mechanical refrigeration phase while the second optional one is an adiabatic cooling phase via mist blowers. It is recognized that adiabatic cooling is energy efficient but limited. When supported by a mechanized source the overall process becomes very efficient. It is noted that the mist blowers are located within the greenhouse enclosure, then the entire greenhouse becomes like a large mixing chamber where each change of phase or air characteristics takes place in the right place.

[0019] The invention presented here makes it possible to drastically reduce the need for fossil energy without, however, banning it. The invention is based more on the optimization of resources, on its management and on the transfers of energy between the batteries (accumulators), which transfers are made at low cost and according to the night and day cycles.

[0020] The method according to the invention is intended to be implemented by a computer, by means of a computer program consisting of instructions adapted to implement at least each of the steps of this method.

[0021] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] According to a first aspect, the invention relates to an energy and hydrometric control system for a horticultural greenhouse, characterized in that it comprises: a first tank designed to contain a first fluid previously heated to a first temperature Te of between approximately 45 and 90°C using: one or more boilers; a heat exchange with a distribution loop of a second fluid previously heated to a second temperature using one or more heat pumps powered by electricity and programmed to produce heat; or the combined action of the boiler(s) and the heat exchange with the distribution loop; the boiler(s) and the distribution loop being part of the control system, and the first tank being fluidically connected to a set of heating pipes installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse;and another reservoir designed to contain a third fluid previously cooled to a temperature of between approximately 2 and 10°C using the heat pump(s) powered by electricity and programmed to produce cold; the distribution loop and the other reservoir being fluidically connected to a set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat or cool the interior of the greenhouse. According to this first aspect, the invention also relates to a method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse implementing the system as described above, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) the outside temperature of the greenhouse (T; ext ); b) i) when the outside temperature T ext measured is lower than a threshold temperature (for example: T ext ≤ 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the heating pipes supplied by the first fluid; ii) when the outside temperature Text measured is higher than the threshold temperature (for example T ext > 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the set of radiators supplied by the second fluid; or iii) when the outside temperature T ext measured is equal to or greater than a useful temperature of the greenhouse, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators supplied by the third fluid.

[0023] According to other advantageous and non-limiting characteristics of the invention according to this first aspect, taken alone or in any technically feasible combination:

[0024] The system is characterized in that the distribution loop is configured to heat the second fluid to temperature Te when the temperature outside the greenhouse is high enough to use only the heat pump(s) to heat the first fluid in the first tank and the second fluid in the distribution loop.

[0025] The system is characterized in that it further comprises a second tank designed to contain the second fluid previously heated using the heat pump(s), said heat exchange then taking place between the first and second tanks, the second tank being fluidically connected to the set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse.

[0026] According to a second aspect, the invention relates to an energy and hydrometric control system for a horticultural greenhouse, characterized in that it comprises: a first high temperature energy cell comprising a first reservoir designed to contain a first volume of a first fluid previously heated to a first temperature of at least 60°C using one or more boilers, the first cell being fluidically connected to a set of heating pipes installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse;a second medium temperature energy cell comprising a second reservoir designed to contain a second volume of a second fluid preheated to a second temperature of between approximately 40 and 60°C using one or more electrically powered heat pumps programmed to produce heat, the second cell being fluidically connected to a set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; a third low temperature energy cell comprising a third reservoir designed to contain a third volume of said second fluid precooled to a third temperature of between approximately 2 and 10°C using the one or more electrically powered heat pumps programmed to produce cold, the third cell being fluidically connected to said set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to cool the interior of the greenhouse;and in that: the first and second energy cells are thermally connected to each other to allow heat exchange from the first to the second cell when the outside temperature is too low to use the heat pump(s) to heat the second fluid of the second energy cell.;

[0027] The invention also relates to a method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse implementing the system as described above, characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) the outside temperature of the greenhouse (T ext ); b) i) when the outside temperature T ext measured is lower than a minimum threshold for operating heat pumps (for example: T ext ≤ 10°C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the heating pipes supplied by the first high-temperature energy cell; ii) when the outside temperature T extmeasured is within an optimal operating range of the heat pumps (for example between -10°C and +10°C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the set of radiators powered by the second medium-temperature energy cell; or iii) when the measured outside temperature is equal to or greater than a useful temperature of the greenhouse, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators powered by the third low-temperature energy cell; and the method is also characterized in that, when the outside temperature approaches the minimum operating threshold of the heat pumps, the method comprises: c) a step during which a heat exchange is carried out from the first cell to the second energy cell to heat the second fluid of the second energy cell.

[0028] The invention also relates to a computer program comprising instructions adapted to the implementation of each of the steps of the methods described above, when the program is executed on a computer.

[0029] According to other advantageous and non-limiting characteristics of the invention according to the first or second aspect thereof, taken alone or in any technically feasible combination: the system is characterized in that it further comprises mechanized and controllable means for supplying air from outside the greenhouse to inject air at the ground level of the greenhouse, at the peak level of the greenhouse, or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

[0030] The system is characterized in that the first fluid comprises water and the second fluid comprises a high efficiency energy transport fluid such as glycol, oil or steam.

[0031] The system is characterized in that the first stack is also fluidically connected to a set of means, such as pipes, installed outside the greenhouse to melt the ice and / or snow present near the greenhouse.

[0032] The system is characterized in that: the boiler(s) are powered by fossil, electrical, geothermal energy, or a mixture of these energies; and the heat pump(s) are powered by electricity produced by alternative energies such as hydraulic, wind, solar, geothermal, biofuel energy, or a mixture of these energies.

[0033] The system is characterized in that it further comprises adiabatic and controllable greenhouse cooling means installed in the greenhouse, such as misters, in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

[0034] The system is characterized in that it further comprises a hydrological station comprising at least a first probe for measuring the temperature inside the greenhouse, at least a second probe for measuring the temperature outside the greenhouse and at least one probe for measuring the humidity level inside the greenhouse.

[0035] The system is characterized in that the operation of the hydrological station and its probes, the boiler(s), the heat pump(s), the mechanized and controllable means of supplying fresh air, and / or the heat transfer is programmable and controllable by a computer or a smart device equipped with computer software and connected to the various control elements of the greenhouse via a wired or wireless network such as WiFi or Bluetooth.

[0036] The method is characterized in that it further comprises a step in which air from outside the greenhouse is injected at the ground level of the greenhouse, at the peak level of the greenhouse, or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

[0037] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0038] Other characteristics and advantages of the invention will emerge from the detailed description of the invention which follows with reference to the appended figures in which:

[0039] Figure 1 shows a first general diagram illustrating preferred modes of the invention;

[0040] Figure 2 shows a diagram of a greenhouse seen from the front illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention;

[0041] Figure 3 shows a diagram of a greenhouse seen from the side illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention; and

[0042] Figure 4 shows a second general diagram illustrating preferred embodiments of the invention.

[0043] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0044] According to a first aspect, the present invention relates to a system (1) for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse, as illustrated in Figure 4. Preferably, this system is suitable for use of greenhouses in regions with a temperate or warm climate.

[0045] The system (1) comprises a first tank (110) designed to contain a first fluid (F1) previously heated to a first temperature Te of between approximately 45 and 90°C. The first fluid (F1) is heated either using one or more boilers (120), preferably, the boiler(s) (120) are powered by fossil fuels, such as gas, electricity, energy from biomass, energy from geothermal energy, or a mixture of these energies; or using a heat exchange (160) with a distribution loop (208) of a second fluid (F2) previously heated to a second temperature using one or more heat pumps (220) powered by electricity and programmed to produce heat. The fluid (F1) can also be heated by the combined action of the boiler(s) (120) and the heat exchange (160) with the distribution loop (208).The first tank (110) is fluidically connected to a set of heating pipes (130) installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior thereof. For example, water at approximately 60°C circulates in the heating pipes (130). The system (1) also comprises another tank (310) designed to contain a third fluid (F3) previously cooled to a temperature between approximately 2 and 10°C using the heat pump(s) powered by electricity and programmed to produce cold. The distribution loop (208) and the other tank (310) are fluidically connected to a set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat or cool the interior of the greenhouse.

[0046] According to this first aspect, the invention also relates to a method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse implementing the system (1) as described above. The method is characterized in that it comprises the following steps: a) the outside temperature of the greenhouse (T ext ); b) i) when the outside temperature T ext measured is lower than a threshold temperature (for example: T ext ≤ 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the heating pipes supplied by the first fluid; ii) when the outside temperature T ext measured is higher than the threshold temperature (for example T ext > 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the set of radiators supplied by the second fluid; or iii) when the outside temperature T extmeasured is equal to or greater than a useful temperature of the greenhouse, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators (230) supplied by the third fluid (F3).

[0047] According to a preferred embodiment, the system (1) is characterized in that the distribution loop (208) is configured to heat the second fluid (F2) to the second temperature at the temperature Te when the temperature outside the greenhouse is high enough to use only the heat pump(s) to heat the first fluid in the first tank and the second fluid in the distribution loop.

[0048] According to a preferred embodiment, the system (1) may further comprise a second reservoir (210) designed to contain the second fluid previously heated using the heat pump(s) (220), said heat exchange then taking place between the first and second reservoirs. This preferred embodiment will be described in more detail in the following description of the second aspect of the invention illustrated in particular in Figure 1. This first aspect of the invention has the following particularities.

[0049] • It is primarily suitable for areas with minimal heating demand (including, but not limited to, the southern United States or countries like Mexico).

[0050] • The cold source comes from the distribution loop, preferably with glycol as a second fluid, which is coupled to heat pumps or other refrigerant sources. In certain regions with hot climates, glycol may be replaced by water.

[0051] • The heat source comes from the boiler and / or the distribution loop (e.g. glycol). Again, in some regions with hot climates, glycol may be replaced by water.

[0052] • In addition, in some cases, the boiler will not be required, or only for safety purposes or to generate CO2 (see details below on this subject).

[0053] • The hot water distribution loops can all operate within a normal range of approximately 45°C to 90°C without being limited and independently.

[0054] • The energy link between the distribution loop and the first reservoir is bidirectional, but without being constrained to it.

[0055] • The ranges of use of the different systems are modified and are more random because in hot regions the need for dehumidification can take precedence over everything else.

[0056] According to a second aspect, the present invention relates to a system (1) for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse, as illustrated in Figure 1. This second aspect of the system according to the present invention can be used in any climate, in particular temperate, continental or colder northern climates.

[0057] The system (1) comprises a first high temperature energy cell (100) comprising a first reservoir (110) adapted to contain a first volume (e.g. 3000 m 3) of a first fluid (F1), such as water, previously heated to a first temperature of at least 60°C, preferably between 60 and 90°C. The first fluid (e.g. water) is heated using one or more boilers (120). Preferably, the boiler(s) (120) are powered by fossil fuels, such as gas, electricity, energy from biomass, energy from geothermal energy, or a mixture of these energies. The first cell (100), in particular its tank (110), is fluidically connected to a set of heating pipes (130) installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior thereof. For example, water at approximately 60°C circulates in the heating pipes (130). According to a preferred embodiment, the first battery (100) is also fluidically connected to a set of means, such as pipes (140), designed to be installed outside the greenhouse to melt the ice and / or snow present near it.For example, water at about 90°C flows through the pipes (140). The pipes (140) can be made of cast iron, steel (with or without fins), or any other suitable heat-conducting material.

[0058] As illustrated in Figure 1 or 4, the carbon dioxide - CO2 - (150) produced by the combustion of fossil energy in the boilers (120) can be captured and reused, at least in part and depending on its quality, to feed the plants in the greenhouse which will absorb this CO2, thus reducing the production of greenhouse gases (GHG).

[0059] The system (1) also comprises a second medium temperature energy cell (200) comprising a second reservoir (210) designed to contain a second volume (e.g. 2000 m 3) of a second fluid (F2) previously heated to a second temperature of between approximately 40 and 60°C, preferably approximately 45°C. Preferably, the second fluid (F2) comprises a high-efficiency energy transport fluid, such as, for example, glycol, oil or steam.

[0060] The second fluid (F2) feeding the second battery (200) is heated using one or more heat pumps (220) operating on electricity and programmed to produce heat. A heat pump (HP), also called a thermopump in Canadian French, is a device for transferring thermal energy from a low-temperature environment (cold source) to a high-temperature environment (hot source). This device therefore makes it possible to reverse the natural direction of spontaneous transfer of thermal energy. Depending on the operating direction of the pumping device, a heat pump can be considered as a heating system, if the temperature of the hot source is to be increased, or a refrigeration system, if the temperature of the cold source is to be lowered. For the production of cold, the process is the basis of almost all air conditioners and refrigerators.For the production of heat, the process differs from classical heating, in which a body is heated (by Joule effect, by combustion, or by any other process).

[0061] According to a preferred method, the heat pumps used are air-water or water-water type pumps.

[0062] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the useful number of heat pumps will be determined as a function of various structural parameters, such as for example the volume of the greenhouse, and the climate. In addition, preferably, the heat pumps (220) can be powered by electricity produced by alternative energies (270) such as hydraulic, wind, solar, geothermal, biofuel, biomass or a mixture of these energies. Here again, the use of non-fossil energy is possible because the amount of electricity required to operate the heat pumps and heat the second fluid between approximately 40 and 60°C is less than the amount of energy required to power the boilers (120) supplying the first cell and producing a first fluid at high temperature.

[0063] The second battery and its reservoir (210) are fluidically connected via a first fluid network (240) to a set of radiators (230) installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior thereof.

[0064] Preferably, the reservoirs of the hot batteries (110, 210) are installed outside the greenhouse or greenhouses. Indeed, the hot batteries can be designed to supply heat to one or more greenhouses.

[0065] The system (1) also comprises a third low temperature energy cell (300) comprising a third reservoir (310) adapted to contain a third volume (e.g. 500 m 3) of said second fluid (F2) previously cooled to a third temperature between approximately 2 and 10 °C using the heat pump(s) described above. In this case, the pumps are programmed to produce cold. The third cell and its reservoir (310) are fluidically connected to the same radiators described above, via a second fluid network (340), both to cool or control the temperature of the greenhouse, but also to dehumidify the greenhouse.

[0066] According to the present invention, the first and second energy cells (200, 300) are thermally connected to each other to allow an exchange or transfer of heat (160) from the first to the second cell, and this when the outside temperature is too low to use the heat pump(s) (220) to heat the second fluid (F2) of the second energy cell (200). This represents an advantage of the present invention, in particular in regions of the world, such as Canada or northern Europe, where winter temperatures can drop well below -10 °C. According to a preferred embodiment, this heat transfer can be carried out with a heat exchanger, for example with a power of 2 MW.According to a preferred mode, a heat transfer can be carried out, at the rhythm of the diurnal and nocturnal cycles, from the low temperature cell (300) to the medium temperature cell (200) to maintain the temperature of the second fluid of the medium temperature cell by using the heat extracted from the cold cell (300). For example, a water-water type heat pump can be used. A water-water heat pump in fact allows an energy transfer between the 3 °C and 45 °C cell, and this at a very low energy.

[0067] The system (1) also comprises mechanized and controllable means for supplying fresh air (400) from outside the greenhouse to inject air at the ground level of the greenhouse (410), at the peak level of the greenhouse (420), or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse. These means will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0068] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the system (1) also comprises adiabatic and controllable means (500) for cooling the greenhouse installed in the greenhouse, such as misters, in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse. Here again, these means will be described in more detail below with reference to Figures 2 and 3.

[0069] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention illustrated in Figure 1, the system (1) also comprises a hydrological station (600) comprising at least one first temperature measuring probe (610) inside the greenhouse, at least one second temperature measuring probe (620) outside the greenhouse and at least one humidity level measuring probe inside the greenhouse (630).

[0070] According to a preferred embodiment of the invention, the operation of the hydrological station (600) and its probes, the boiler(s) (120), the heat pump(s) (220), the mechanized and controllable means for supplying fresh air (400), and / or the heat transfer (160) between the first and second energy cell is programmable and controllable by a computer or a smart device equipped with computer software and connected to the various control elements of the greenhouse via a wired or wireless network such as WiFi or Bluetooth.

[0071] According to the second aspect, the present invention also relates to a method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse, implementing the system as described in the present application and in which the set points must be adapted to the climates and technologies used without limitation. The method comprises the following steps: a) the outside temperature Text of the greenhouse is measured, for example with the outside probe (620); b) i) when the outside temperature T ext measured is lower than a minimum threshold for operating heat pumps (for example: T ext ≤ 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the heating pipes supplied by the first high-temperature energy cell; ii) when the outside temperature T extmeasured is within an optimal operating range of the heat pumps (for example between -10 °C and + 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the set of radiators powered by the second medium temperature energy cell; or iii) when the temperature when the measured outside temperature is equal to or higher than a useful temperature of the greenhouse, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators powered by the third low temperature energy cell; and when the outside temperature T ext measured approaches the minimum threshold for adequate operation of the heat pump(s), the method then comprises: d) a step during which a heat exchange is carried out from the first to the second energy cell to heat the second fluid of the second energy cell.

[0072] The minimum threshold and the minimum operating range of the heat pump(s) depend in particular on the power of the heat pump(s) and the technology. These operating parameters may therefore change over time and would not be a limiting element of the present invention. To date, a minimum operating threshold temperature is around approximately -12 / -10 °C.

[0073] According to a preferred embodiment, the method may also include a step during which air from outside the greenhouse is injected at the ground level of the greenhouse, at the peak of the greenhouse, or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

[0074] According to a preferred embodiment, the method may also comprise a step during which a heat transfer is carried out, at the rate of the day and night cycles, from the low temperature cell (300) to the medium temperature cell (200) to maintain the temperature of the second fluid of the medium temperature cell using the heat extracted from the cold cell (300). For example, as mentioned above, a water-water heat pump may be used for this heat exchange. According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse which comprises the following steps: a) the outside temperature of the greenhouse is measured, for example with the outside probe (620);b) i) when the measured outside temperature is lower than approximately -10°C, the interior of the greenhouse is heated using a set of heating pipes (130) installed in the greenhouse and supplied with a first fluid (F1) coming from a first high-temperature energy cell (100) comprising a first tank (110) designed to contain a first volume of the first fluid (F1) previously heated to a first temperature of at least 60°C using one or more boilers (120);ii) when the measured outside temperature is between approximately -10°C and +10°C, the interior of the greenhouse is heated using a set of radiators (230) installed in the greenhouse and supplied with a second fluid (F2) coming from a second medium-temperature energy cell (200) comprising a second reservoir (210) designed to contain a second volume of the second fluid (F2) previously heated to a second temperature between approximately 40 and 60°C, using one or more heat pumps powered by electricity and programmed to produce heat;or iii) when the measured outside temperature is equal to or greater than + 10 °C, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators (230) installed in the greenhouse and supplied with the second fluid (F2) coming from a third low-temperature energy cell (300) comprising a third reservoir (310) designed to contain a third volume of the second fluid (F2) previously cooled to a third temperature between approximately 2 and 10 °C using the heat pump(s) powered by electricity and programmed to produce cold; and c) air is injected from outside the greenhouse at the ground level of the greenhouse (410), at the peak level of the greenhouse (420), or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.;

[0075] When the outside temperature approaches a suitable operating limit temperature of the heat pump(s), the method comprises: d) a step during which a heat exchange is carried out from the first to the second energy cell to heat the second fluid of the second energy cell. According to a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises a step during which the ice and / or snow present near the greenhouse is melted via a set of means, such as pipes (140), installed outside the greenhouse fluidically connected to the first cell (100). As already mentioned, these pipes (140) can be made of cast iron, steel (with or without fins), or any other suitable conductive material.

[0076] According to a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises a step during which the hydrometry of the greenhouse is controlled via adiabatic and controllable means of cooling the greenhouse installed in the greenhouse, such as misters (500).

[0077] According to a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises a step during which the temperature inside the greenhouse, the temperature outside the greenhouse and the humidity level inside the greenhouse are measured. As mentioned above, these measurements are preferably carried out using probes or sensors installed in the greenhouse (temperature (610) or hydrometry (630) and outside the greenhouse (temperature (620)).

[0078] According to a preferred embodiment, the method further comprises a step during which the operation of the various control elements of the greenhouse is programmed and controlled by a computer or a smart device equipped with computer software and connected to said elements via a wired or wireless network such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth. The various control elements of the greenhouse comprising the hydrological station (600) equipped with probes (610, 620, 630) for measuring the temperature and the humidity level, the boiler(s) (120), the heat pump(s) (220), the mechanized and controllable means for supplying fresh air (400), and / or the heat transfer between the first and second energy cell (160), or between the second and third cell (not shown).

[0079] According to another aspect, the present invention relates to a computer program comprising instructions adapted to the implementation of each of the steps of the methods described in the present application, the method, when the program is executed on a computer.

[0080] Figures 2 and 3 illustrate a greenhouse, and in particular the mechanical air supply means (400) as discussed above, and the circulation of air in the greenhouse via vertically directed (VAF) or horizontally directed (HAF) fans. The metric data indicated in Figures 2 and 3 are for informational purposes only and would in no way limit the invention. The use of the fans is also described in part below. Figure 2 in particular illustrates an air supply through the roof of the greenhouse (410), and Figure 3 shows an air supply through the ground or the bottom of the greenhouse (420). Both supply systems can be present. In Figure 3, reference 450 represents the ground level, and reference 460 represents underground pipes. Figure 2 also shows the possibility of having structural elements in height or suspended in the greenhouse, for example a table (430) in the germination area (440).

[0081] The invention as described herein provides several advantages. Among these advantages are the following:

[0082] A) The system described introduces a dissociation of the heating networks in order to maximize the potential of the heat pumps (220); while maintaining the requirements for snow melting and extreme cold through the combined use of boilers (120);

[0083] B) The described system uses three water tanks (110, 210, 310) of energy cells, at different temperatures, instead of a single tank or cell;

[0084] C) The system allows a thermal connection (160) between the high temperature loop (100) and the medium temperature loop (200), thus allowing a large amount of energy to be discharged when the heat pump network becomes inefficient (very low temperature);

[0085] D) The system allows the inclusion of a medium temperature hot water loop (200) allowing the use of alternative energy sources (270), such as solar concentrators, wind, hydraulic and geothermal;

[0086] E) The system according to the invention makes it possible to combine a mechanized means of supplying fresh air (400) with the distribution of heating providing a large quantity of CO2 to the plants in the greenhouse;

[0087] F) The system according to the invention makes it possible to combine a mechanical and adiabatic cooling system (500) inside a raised enclosure (see Figures 2 and 3). This combination transforms the greenhouse into a mixing chamber where the conditions are optimal and where energy gradients are formed naturally.

[0088] Benefits of the invention:

[0089] 1) Optimizes the use of heat pumps (220);

[0090] 2) Reduces GHGs because 80% of the energy comes from heat pumps (200); (annual basis);

[0091] 3) Allows the use of high-efficiency heat pumps (220) for heating and cooling; 4) Allows the use of primary energy loops (e.g. glycol), allowing the heat pumps (220) to operate independently, in blocks or in cascade, in all regions of the world.

[0092] 5) Allows the integration of solar concentrators or any other energy source (270) via an interface at the glycol loop level. Networking and energy transport in the energy loops are configurable using high-efficiency fluids (F2).

[0093] 6) Allows the air in the growing area to be dehumidified at all times via the network connected to the low-temperature energy stack (300) at approximately 3°C;

[0094] 7) Dehumidification via the energy cell at low temperatures (300) at around 3°C, makes it possible to significantly improve the efficiency of misting systems (500).

[0095] 8) Very high flexibility in climate management;

[0096] 9) Ground level air supply (410) allows for increased CO2 density and increased productivity at lower cost, because CO2 is heavier than air; and

[0097] 10) Allows easy expansion of the energy network via its glycol network. For example, parallel configuration of heat pumps only requires one connection to the network in case of addition.

[0098] Scope and scope:

[0099] The present invention applies primarily to various greenhouse crops. The variety and / or type of plants have no effect on the patent and this patent remains applicable in all respects.

[0100] The present invention applies regardless of the shape of the greenhouse, its size, its height, its covering etc.;

[0101] The various fluids used in alternative energy loops are primarily intended to be steam, oil, and glycol, but not limited to them.

[0102] The various fluids used in the energy loops coming from heat pumps (220) are mainly intended to be glycol or water without being limited to it.

[0103] The boilers (120) are potentially powered by natural gas, propane or electricity, but are not limited to these.

[0104] The present invention applies regardless of the size of the boilers (120), the source of supply thereof, their type;

[0105] The present invention applies regardless of the type of heat pumps (220) used (air-air / air-water / water-water); The temperatures cited (90 °C, 60 °C, 45 °C, 3 °C) will be potentially optimal at a specific time during the year. Any adjustment or calibration different from these temperatures has no effect on the protection conferred by the patent;

[0106] The shape, dimensions, type of energy batteries have no effect on the protection conferred by the patent;

[0107] The use of various sources of electrical energy (270) such as the network (280), wind or solar are only indicative; the use of any other sources of energy has no effect on the protection conferred by the patent;

[0108] Temperature ranges may vary from region to region and / or country to country. Variation in these energy usage ranges has no effect on the protection conferred by the patent;

[0109] The use or non-use of natural ventilation mechanism (400) has no effect on the patent and this patent remains applicable in all respects; and

[0110] The sizing of the mechanical elements, the type, the flow rate, the voltage etc. which supply the greenhouse with air and CO2 have no effect on the patent and this patent remains applicable in all respects.

[0111] MANAGEMENT LOGIC MINIMIZING ENERGY AND CO2 COSTS

[0112] Optimal solution = Function minimizing the following 2 variables: Energy costs & CO2 emissions

[0113] Initial assumptions:

[0114] 1) Temperature range giving optimal operation of heat pumps maximizing the COP is as follows -10 °C < Text < 45 °C.

[0115] 2) The sizing of heat pumps is equal to or greater than 35% of the peak heating power and 120% of the peak cooling power.

[0116] 3) The sizing of the reserves (batteries) is based on the cumulative needs outside the range, i.e. periods of extreme cold or heat waves.

[0117] 4) The high temperature circuit is powered by third-party energy.

[0118] These assumptions may vary from one site to another, from one crop to another and / or depending on the technologies chosen (heat pumps).

[0119] Primary management instructions: A) If Text (outside temperature) is in the optimal operating range (for example: Text > 10 °C) heat pumps are favored;

[0120] B) If Text is lower than the minimum operating threshold of the heat pumps (for example: Text < 10 °C), we first use the energy accumulated in the 2 batteries (100, 200);

[0121] C) If the cold period continues and / or the 45°C (200) battery becomes weak, an energy transfer is carried out between the batteries;

[0122] D) Over the seasons and on a regular basis (e.g. bi-weekly), the heat pump power instructions can be reviewed to determine what percentage of the available energy will be used for heating and what percentage will be used for cooling. These calculations preferably take into account the following elements: energy requirements according to the weather forecast and calculated degree days, battery status, daily operating energy input (e.g. lamps, motor power)

[0123] E) If there is no need for fossil energy, CO2 can be added to the greenhouse via the supply system;

[0124] F) The temperature of the high temperature network is reduced (if possible) to 45 or 60°C in summer;

[0125] G) We can always maximize the use of the central pile (45°C).

[0126] Daily instructions:

[0127] In winter (daytime) and normal periods: a) The greenhouse can be used as a conventional greenhouse; b) The use of natural ventilation (very low energy consumption) can be maximized; c) The 45°C and 3°C circuits (200, 300) can be used according to current needs; d) The 90°C Stack (100) can be used in maintenance mode; e) The VAF and HAF can be used at normal speed;

[0128] During heat waves and / or when the enthalpy of the outside air becomes higher than that measured at the ridge of the greenhouse: a) You can switch to semi- or fully closed mode (these two modes minimize gas exchanges with the outside, or even avoid them for a certain period of time); b) You can switch to climate management mode by stratification; c) You can activate the air supply in minimal mode and maintain a slight positive pressure; d) You can use the HAF and VAF speeds at the minimum threshold; e) You can dehumidify with the 3 °C and 45 °C circuits and re-humidify with the misting system (500) when necessary, i.e. you ensure that the air passes from a cool and dry stage at ground level to a hot and humid mode at the ridge. Then and on certain occasions, it is possible that you have to favor the aerial misting network. Hot dry air will tend to de-stratify.We can have complete probes at more than one level in order to know in real time the characteristics of the air. The mechanical system located on the ground (410) can remove grams of H2O while the aerial misters (500) add them. These two networks are not in competition, they are two distinct tools allowing to achieve the natural phase changes of air and water at a lower cost. f) The 90 °C Stack is used in maintenance mode;.

[0129] In the winter night period and / or when 80% of the energy is used for heating: a) We can switch to stratification mode because in this case it is preferable to mix the air well in order to retain maximum heat in the growing area and to reduce the risk of condensation; b) We can use the HAF and VAF speeds in maximum mode; c) we can activate the air supply in minimum mode and maintain a slight positive pressure. This option is important during very cold and windy weather. Just as during heat waves, it is important to preserve the integrity of the building envelope by counteracting unwanted infiltrations related to pressure differences; d) We can manage batteries and energies according to the primary instructions;

[0130] Although described with reference to one or more preferred embodiments, it should be understood that the present invention may be used, employed and / or embodied in a multitude of other forms. Thus, the following claims should be interpreted so as to include these various forms while remaining outside the limits set by the prior art.

Claims

AMENDED CLAIMS received by the International Bureau on June 28, 2024 (06.28.2024) 1. Energy and hydrometric control system for a horticultural greenhouse, comprising: a set of heating pipes installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; a set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat or cool the interior of the greenhouse; one or more boilers; one or more electrically powered heat pumps; a first tank containing a first fluid (F1) previously heated to a first temperature Te of between approximately 45 and 90°C using: the boiler(s), a heat exchange with a distribution loop of a second fluid (F2) previously heated to a second temperature using the electrically powered heat pump(s) programmed to produce heat, or the combined action of the boiler(s) and the heat exchange with the distribution loop;the distribution loop forming part of the control system, and the first reservoir being fluidically connected to said set of heating pipes installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; another reservoir containing a third fluid (F3) previously cooled to a temperature of between approximately 2 and 10°C using the heat pump(s) powered by electricity and programmed to produce cold; the distribution loop and the other reservoir being fluidically connected to said set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat or cool the interior of the greenhouse; and a hydrological station comprising at least a first probe for measuring the temperature inside the greenhouse, at least a second probe for measuring the temperature outside the greenhouse and at least one probe for measuring the humidity level inside the greenhouse.; 2. The system according to claim 1, wherein the distribution loop is configured to heat the second fluid to the temperature Te when the temperature outside the greenhouse is high enough to use only the heat pump(s) to heat the first fluid in the first tank and the second fluid (F2) of the distribution loop.

3. The system according to claim 1 or 2, further comprising a second tank designed to contain the second fluid previously heated using the heat pump(s), said heat exchange then taking place between the first and second tanks, the second tank being fluidically connected to the set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse.

4. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, further comprising mechanized and controllable means for supplying air from outside the greenhouse to inject the air at the ground level of the greenhouse, at the peak level of the greenhouse, or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

5. The system of any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first fluid (F1) comprises water and the second fluid (F2) comprises a high efficiency energy transport fluid such as glycol, oil or steam.

6. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the first reservoir is also fluidically connected to a set of means, such as pipes, installed outside the greenhouse for melting the ice and / or snow present near the greenhouse.

7. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: the boiler(s) are powered by fossil, electrical, geothermal energies, or a mixture of these energies; and the heat pump(s) are powered by electricity produced by alternative energies chosen from hydraulic, wind, solar, geothermal, biofuel energy, and a mixture of these energies.

8. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 7, further comprising adiabatic and controllable greenhouse cooling means installed in the greenhouse, such as misters, in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

9. The system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a computer or an intelligent device equipped with computer software and connected to the various control elements of the greenhouse via a wired or wireless network in order to program or control the operation of the hydrological station and its probes, of the boilers, heat pump(s), mechanized and controllable means of fresh air supply, and / or heat transfer.

10. Method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse implementing the system as claimed in any one of claims 1 to 9, comprising the following steps: a) the outside temperature of the greenhouse (T ext ); b) i) when the outside temperature T ext measured is lower than a threshold temperature (for example: T ext≤ 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the heating pipes supplied by the first fluid; ii) when the outside temperature T ext measured is higher than the threshold temperature (for example T ext > 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the set of radiators supplied by the second fluid; or iii) when the outside temperature T ext measured is equal to or greater than a useful temperature of the greenhouse, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators supplied by the third fluid.

11. The method of claim 10, further comprising a step of injecting air from outside the greenhouse at the greenhouse floor level, at the greenhouse ridge level, or at both levels to control the greenhouse humidity.

12. Computer program comprising instructions adapted to the implementation of each of the steps of the design method according to any one of claims 10 to 11, when the program is executed on a computer.

13. Energy and hydrometric control system for a horticultural greenhouse, comprising: a set of heating pipes installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; a set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; one or more boilers; one or more heat pumps powered by electricity; a first high-temperature energy cell comprising a first reservoir containing a first volume of a first fluid previously heated to a first temperature of at least 60°C using the one or more boilers, the first cell being fluidically connected to said set of heating pipes installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; a second medium temperature energy cell comprising a second reservoir containing a second volume of a second fluid previously heated to a second temperature of between approximately 40 and 60°C using the at least one electrically powered heat pump programmed to produce heat, the second cell being fluidically connected to said set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to heat the interior of the greenhouse; a third low temperature energy cell comprising a third reservoir designed to contain a third volume of said second fluid previously cooled to a third temperature of between approximately 2 and 10°C using the at least one electrically powered heat pump programmed to produce cold, the third cell being fluidically connected to said set of radiators installed in the greenhouse to cool the interior of the greenhouse;and a hydrological station comprising at least a first probe for measuring the temperature inside the greenhouse, at least a second probe for measuring the temperature outside the greenhouse and at least one probe for measuring the humidity level inside the greenhouse; and wherein: the first and second energy cells are thermally connected to each other to allow heat exchange from the first to the second cell when the outside temperature is too low to use the heat pump(s) to heat the second fluid of the second energy cell.; 14. The system according to claim 13, further comprising mechanized and controllable means for supplying air from outside the greenhouse to inject the air at the ground level of the greenhouse, at the peak level of the greenhouse, or at both levels in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

15. The system of claim 13 or 14, wherein the first fluid comprises water and the second fluid comprises a high efficiency energy transport fluid such as glycol, oil or steam.

16. The system according to any one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the first cell is also fluidically connected to a set of means, such as pipes, installed outside the greenhouse for melting ice and / or snow present in the vicinity of the greenhouse.

17. The system according to any one of claims 13 to 16, wherein: the boiler(s) are powered by fossil, electrical, geothermal energies, or a mixture of these energies; and the heat pump(s) are powered by electricity produced by alternative energies chosen from hydraulic, wind, solar, geothermal, biofuel energy, and a mixture of these energies.

18. The system according to any one of claims 13 to 17, further comprising adiabatic and controllable greenhouse cooling means installed in the greenhouse, such as misters, in order to control the hydrometry of the greenhouse.

19. The system according to any one of claims 13 to 18, further comprising a computer or an intelligent device equipped with computer software and connected to the various control elements of the greenhouse via a wired or wireless network, in order to program or control the operation of the hydrological station and its probes, the boiler(s), the heat pump(s), the mechanized and controllable means of supplying fresh air, and / or the transfer of heat between the first and second energy cell.

20. Method for energy and hydrometric control of a horticultural greenhouse implementing the system as claimed in any one of claims 13 to 19, comprising the following steps: a) the outside temperature of the greenhouse (T ext ); b) i) when the outside temperature T ext measured is lower than a minimum threshold for operating heat pumps (for example: T ext ≤ 10 °C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the heating pipes supplied by the first high-temperature energy cell; ii) when the outside temperature T extmeasured is within an optimal operating range of the heat pumps (for example between -10°C and +10°C), the interior of the greenhouse is heated via the set of radiators powered by the second medium-temperature energy cell; or iii) when the measured outside temperature is equal to or higher than a useful temperature of the greenhouse, the interior of the greenhouse is cooled using said set of radiators powered by the third low-temperature energy cell; and when the outside temperature approaches the minimum operating threshold of the heat pumps, the method further comprises: c) a step in which a heat exchange is carried out from the first cell to the second energy cell to heat the second fluid of the second energy cell.

21. The method of claim 20, further comprising a step of injecting air from outside the greenhouse at the greenhouse floor level, at the greenhouse ridge level, or at both levels to control the greenhouse humidity.

22. Computer program comprising instructions adapted to the implementation of each of the steps of the design method according to any one of claims 20 to 21, when the program is executed on a computer.

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