Greenhouse cultivation system

Abstract

To provide a greenhouse cultivation system that enables utilization of carbon dioxide and heat resulting from combustion and that ensures an air-conditioning effect within the greenhouse.SOLUTION: There is provided a greenhouse cultivation system 1 for supplying carbon dioxide contained in exhaust gas generated by combustion into a greenhouse H. The system may comprise an absorption chiller / heater 10 configured to: utilize combustion; be switchable between a refrigeration cycle and a heating cycle; selectively provide a cooling effect and a heating effect within the greenhouse H; and include a high-temperature heat exchanger 71 utilizing heat of the exhaust gas generated by combustion. Alternatively, the system may comprise: an absorption chiller / heater 10 configured to utilize combustion, be switchable between the refrigeration cycle and the heating cycle, and selectively provide the cooling effect and the heating effect within the greenhouse H; an exhaust gas route R provided outside the absorption chiller / heater 10 through which the exhaust gas generated by combustion, flows; and a low-temperature heat exchanger 72 provided in the exhaust gas route R and utilizing heat of the exhaust gas generated by combustion.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a house cultivation system.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, a temperature management system that appropriately controls a device such as a heat pump has been proposed to optimize the temperature inside a house used for plant cultivation and the like (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] Here, regarding the temperature management system as described in Patent Document 1, it only performs temperature management in order to maximize the yield or quality of crops, and does not perform control from the viewpoint of, for example, optimizing profits. For this reason, even if the yield is maximized, the crop may be a bumper crop nationwide and the crop may be discarded, or even though the quality is maximized, the crop may be a poor crop nationwide and the yield should have been maximized, etc., and the profit is not maximized.

[0005] In addition, since photosynthesis is essential for the growth of crops, it is necessary to supply carbon dioxide to the crops. However, regarding the temperature management system as described in Patent Document 1, while pursuing temperature management, the supply of carbon dioxide is not considered, and there is room for improvement in maximizing profits from this point as well.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and an object thereof is to provide a house cultivation system.

Means for Solving the Problem

[0007] The house cultivation system according to the present invention is a house cultivation system that supplies carbon dioxide contained in the flue gas generated by combustion into the house, utilizes combustion, and can switch between a refrigeration cycle using a regenerator, a condenser, an evaporator, and an absorber and a heating cycle using a regenerator, an evaporator, and an absorber, selectively provides a cooling effect and a heating effect in the house, and includes an absorption chiller having means for utilizing the heat of the flue gas generated by combustion.

[0008] Further, the house cultivation system according to the present invention is a house cultivation system that supplies carbon dioxide contained in the flue gas generated by combustion into the house, utilizes combustion, and can switch between a refrigeration cycle using a regenerator, a condenser, an evaporator, and an absorber and a heating cycle using a regenerator, an evaporator, and an absorber, selectively provides a cooling effect and a heating effect in the house, and includes an absorption chiller, a flow path provided outside the absorption chiller through which the flue gas generated by combustion flows, and means provided in the flow path for utilizing the heat of the flue gas generated by combustion.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a house cultivation system that can utilize carbon dioxide and heat generated by combustion and can provide an air conditioning effect in the house.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Best Mode for Carrying Out the Invention

[0011] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in accordance with preferred embodiments. It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the embodiments shown below, and can be appropriately modified without departing from the gist of the present invention. In addition, in the embodiments shown below, there are some parts where the illustration and description of some configurations are omitted. However, it goes without saying that well-known or widely known technologies are appropriately applied within the range where there is no contradiction with the content described below regarding the details of the omitted technologies.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing a house cultivation system according to an embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 1, the house cultivation system 1 controls the temperature, carbon dioxide concentration, and humidity inside the house H for cultivating crops. This house cultivation system 1 includes a house H, an absorption chiller (air conditioning equipment) 10, a blower (air conditioning equipment) 20, a heat storage tank 30, a damper 40, a flue gas treatment device 50, a ventilation fan 60, a heat exchanger 70, a control device 80, a flue gas route R, a plurality of sensors T1 to T5, TH, C1, C2, B, S, and a three-way valve V.

[0013] The absorption chiller 10 and the blower 20 can provide an air conditioning effect by using the combustion of fuel inside the house H and supply carbon dioxide generated by the combustion of fuel. In this embodiment, the absorption chiller 10 is taken as an example for explanation, but it is not particularly limited thereto, and a gas heat pump or the like may be used as long as it can provide an air conditioning effect inside the house H and supply carbon dioxide.

[0014] The absorption chiller 10 obtains a refrigerant by using a refrigeration cycle of a regenerator, a condenser, an evaporator, and an absorber. Further, the absorption chiller 10 obtains a heating liquid by a heating cycle (that is, a cycle not using a condenser) of a regenerator, an evaporator, and an absorber by switching a switching valve (not shown).

[0015] This absorption type chiller / heater 10 includes a first pipe (pipe) L1 and a first pump P1. The first pipe L1 is a flow path for circulating a cooling liquid or a heating liquid between the absorption type chiller / heater 10 and a blower 20 provided in the house H. The first pump P1 provides the power for circulating the cooling liquid or the heating liquid in the first pipe L1. With these configurations, the cooling liquid or the heating liquid is transferred from the absorption type chiller / heater 10 to the blower 20, utilized for cooling or heating in the blower 20, and then returns to the absorption type chiller / heater 10.

[0016] Furthermore, the absorption type chiller / heater 10 includes a cooling tower CT, a second pipe L2, and a second pump P2. The second pipe L2 is a flow path that is connected in a circulatable manner to the cooling tower CT via the absorber and the condenser of the absorption type chiller / heater 10. The second pump P2 provides the power for circulating the cooling water in the second pipe L2. With these configurations, the cooling water takes in the absorption heat and the condensation heat in the absorber and the condenser of the absorption type chiller / heater 10, is then transferred to the cooling tower CT, dissipates heat in the cooling tower CT, and returns to the absorption type chiller / heater 10 again after heat dissipation.

[0017] The blower 20 provides a cooling effect or a heating effect in the house H by using the cooling liquid or the heating liquid from the absorption type chiller / heater 10. The blower 20 has a fan (not shown). For example, when the cooling liquid is flowing in the first pipe L1, turning on the fan provides a cooling effect in the house H, and when the heating liquid is flowing, turning on the fan provides a heating effect in the house H.

[0018] The heat storage tank 30 is connected to the first pipe L1 and stores cold heat from cold liquid and warm heat from heating liquid. In this heat storage tank 30, a heat storage material such as magnesium hydroxide is stored, enabling the storage of cold heat and warm heat. Note that the heat storage tank 30 is not limited to this configuration, and other configurations such as simply storing cold liquid or heating liquid may be adopted. Such a heat storage tank 30 is connected to the first pipe L1 via a three-way valve V. Therefore, the cold liquid or heating liquid of the absorption chiller / heater 10 can reach the blower 20 via the heat storage tank 30, or can reach the blower 20 without passing through the heat storage tank 30.

[0019] Also, the absorption chiller / heater 10 is configured such that the regenerator can be heated by fuels such as fuel gas and wood pellets. Furthermore, the absorption chiller / heater 10 generates flue gas containing carbon dioxide by the combustion of fuel.

[0020] The flue gas route R is a smoke flow path for supplying the flue gas generated in the absorption chiller / heater 10 into the house H or discharging it into the sky. This flue gas route R branches into a first route R1 and a second route R2 midway. The first route R1 is a route for discharging the flue gas into the sky, and a damper 40 is provided near the tip. The damper 40 can open and close the first route R1 and controls the discharge of the flue gas. The second route R2 is a route leading into the house H and is a route for supplying the flue gas into the house H. When the damper 40 is opened, the flue gas is discharged into the sky, and when the damper 40 is closed, the flue gas is supplied into the house H.

[0021] The flue gas treatment device 50 is a device that performs so-called denitrification and desulfurization. The flue gas may contain sulfur components and nitrogen oxides that are harmful. The flue gas treatment device 50 removes sulfur components and nitrogen oxides to meet the environmental standards during discharge, or to prevent the flue gas containing harmful substances above the standards from being supplied into the house H.

[0022] The ventilation fan 60 is for replacing the air inside the house H. This ventilation fan 60 performs normal ventilation operation and high ventilation operation when the carbon dioxide concentration inside the house H reaches an abnormal value.

[0023] The heat exchanger 70 includes a high-temperature heat exchanger 71, a low-temperature heat exchanger 72, and a second low-temperature heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 73. The high-temperature heat exchanger 71 and the low-temperature heat exchanger 72 utilize the heat of the exhaust gas, and supply heat to other devices that require heat through heat exchange with the exhaust gas.

[0024] The second low-temperature heat exchanger 73 performs heat exchange between the fluid flowing through the first pipe L1 and the fluid flowing through the second pipe L2. For example, when it is desired to supply carbon dioxide into the house H, the absorption chiller / heater 10 is operated. At this time, if there is no need to cool or heat the inside of the house H, the fan of the blower 20 is not turned on, and the cold liquid or heating liquid obtained by the absorption chiller / heater 10 is used for heat storage in the heat storage tank 30. However, when the heat storage capacity in the heat storage tank 30 is exceeded, it is necessary to discard the cold heat or warm heat. In such a case, by performing heat exchange using the second low-temperature heat exchanger 73, the heat on the first pipe L1 side can be discarded from the cooling tower CT side.

[0025] The first temperature sensor T1 is for detecting the temperature of the exhaust gas flowing through the second route R2 of the exhaust gas route R. The second temperature sensor T2 is for detecting the temperature of the cold liquid or heating liquid flowing through the first pipe L1. The third temperature sensor T3 is for detecting the temperature at the upper part of the heat storage tank 30. The fourth temperature sensor T4 is for detecting the temperature at the lower part of the heat storage tank 30. The fifth temperature sensor T5 is for detecting the outside air temperature in the environment where the house H is installed.

[0026] The temperature and humidity sensor (temperature sensor, humidity sensor) TH is for detecting the temperature and humidity inside the house H. The first carbon dioxide sensor (carbon dioxide sensor) C1 is for detecting the carbon dioxide concentration inside the house H. The second carbon dioxide sensor C2 is for detecting the carbon dioxide concentration targeting the outside air outside the house H. The solar radiation sensor S is for detecting the solar radiation amount in the environment where the house H is installed, that is, the solar radiation amount irradiated on the cultivated crops. The atmospheric pressure sensor B is for detecting the atmospheric pressure in the environment where the house H is installed.

[0027] The control device 80 controls the entire house cultivation system 1. Based on the calculation content and information from each sensor T1 to T5, TH, C1, C2, B, S, it controls the operation of the absorption chiller 10, the operation of the blower 20, the operation of the three-way valve V, and the operation of the damper 40, etc.

[0028] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the details of the control device 80 shown in Figure 1. As shown in Figure 2, the control device 80 includes a storage unit (storage means) 81, a setting unit (setting means) 82, a yield prediction unit (prediction means) 83, a calculation unit (calculation means) 84, and an operation control unit (control means) 85.

[0029] The storage unit 81 stores a control program and various data for controlling the house cultivation system 1. Furthermore, the storage unit 81 stores correlation data showing the correlation between the quality and yield and the temperature for at least the crops (cultivated crops) scheduled to be cultivated in the house H.

[0030] Here, according to the research literature of Okayama University (literature name: YoshiMax Beginners Manual, Basic of Strawberry Cultivation and Environmental Control Settings for Each Season, hereinafter referred to as the reference literature), on page 3, it is explained that crops have a range of suitable growth temperatures. Also, it is described that by performing temperature management at a relatively high level within this range, a decline in the vigor of the plants can be avoided, and the yield can be improved. On the other hand, by performing temperature management at a relatively low level within the range of suitable growth temperatures, the ripening of fruits can be delayed, and the accumulation of sugar and the decrease in acid can proceed, that is, it is described that the quality can be improved. Note that it is explained that in temperature management below or above the range of suitable growth temperatures, both the yield and quality tend to decrease. The storage unit 81 stores such a tendency as correlation data.

[0031] Note that depending on the crop, there may be a correlation different from that shown on page 3 of the reference literature. For example, for some crops such as Otohuji and Benihoppe (strawberry varieties), maintaining a sufficient carbon dioxide concentration through high-temperature management can result in high-quality fruits. For such crops, correlation data showing a tendency different from that shown on page 3 of the reference literature is stored in the storage unit 81.

[0032] The setting unit 82 sets future weather conditions for the planned growth period of the cultivated crops in the greenhouse H (that is, the period when the crops are planned to be grown in the future). Such a setting unit 82 includes an input unit 82a and a weather prediction unit 82b.

[0033] The input unit 82a inputs data from the outside. In this embodiment, it inputs future weather data including predicted temperature and predicted solar radiation during the planned growth period of the crops, or inputs information on the yield of the cultivated crops according to past weather data. The information input to the input unit 82a is stored in the storage unit 81.

[0034] The setting unit 82 sets the future weather data during the planned growth period of the crops input to the input unit 82a as future weather conditions.

[0035] The weather prediction unit 82b predicts the weather conditions during the planned crop growth period based on past weather data. For example, the weather prediction unit 82b predicts the weather conditions during the planned growth period using AI (Artificial Intelligence) or the like based on the temperature trend several months before the planned growth period, or predicts the weather conditions during the planned growth period by adding the change trend (upward or downward trend) of the average temperature over the past few years to the weather data of last year. Note that the method for predicting weather conditions is not limited to the above.

[0036] The setting unit 82 sets the prediction result predicted by the weather prediction unit 82b as the future weather conditions during the planned crop growth period.

[0037] Note that since the setting unit 82 may set the weather conditions using either the input unit 82a or the weather prediction unit 82b, it does not necessarily need to have the other configuration. Also, the setting unit 82 may have both and set the average of the results of both as the future weather conditions.

[0038] In addition, the weather prediction unit 82b determines whether the set weather conditions match the actual weather data (whether the difference is within a predetermined value), and if they do not match, it may be configured to change the weather conditions from the present until the end of the planned growth period based on the trend. For example, when, 10 days after the start of the planned growth period, the weather conditions for 10 days are significantly different from the actual weather data, it is preferable to correct the subsequent weather conditions.

[0039] For example, when the actual temperature is lower than the temperature of the set weather conditions, the weather prediction unit 82b predicts that the temperature of the subsequent weather conditions will be lowered overall, and the setting unit 82 makes a setting based on the newly predicted weather conditions. Similarly, for example, when the actual solar radiation amount is less than the solar radiation amount of the set weather conditions, the weather prediction unit 82b predicts that the solar radiation amount of the set weather conditions will be lowered overall, and the setting unit 82 makes a setting based on the newly predicted weather conditions. In this way, the setting unit 82 performs feedback adjustment on the future weather conditions set every predetermined period (for example, 10 days).

[0040] The yield prediction unit 83 predicts the yield of the cultivated crops based on the weather conditions set by the setting unit 82. The yield predicted here is, for example, a prediction of the national yield. By the prediction of this yield prediction unit 83, it is possible to determine whether it is a bumper year or a poor year.

[0041] Such a yield prediction unit 83 predicts the yield of the cultivated crops (for example, the degree of bumper harvest or poor harvest) based on, for example, the set weather conditions and the information on the yield of the cultivated crops according to the past weather data. Taking an example, the yield prediction unit 83 predicts the degree of bumper harvest or poor harvest based on, for example, which side the weather conditions set by the setting unit 82 are closer to among the past weather data of bumper years and the past weather data of poor years. That is, when the solar radiation amount of the weather conditions set by the setting unit 82 is close to the solar radiation amount data of the past poor years and the temperature is close to the temperature data of the past bumper years, the yield prediction unit 83 predicts, for example, an intermediate state that is neither a bumper harvest nor a poor harvest. Similarly, when the solar radiation amount of the weather conditions set by the setting unit 82 is close to the solar radiation amount data of the past bumper years and the temperature is in the middle of the temperature data of the past bumper years and the previous year, the yield prediction unit 83 predicts, for example, a slightly bumper harvest. Note that this prediction may also be performed by AI, or may be performed by an arithmetic formula or the like for determining closeness or an intermediate state.

[0042] Furthermore, the yield prediction unit 83 may predict the degree of abundance or failure, for example, based on the temperature among the set weather conditions and the correlation data stored in the storage unit 81. Note that in the above, the yield prediction unit 83 predicts the degree of abundance or failure (an example of the yield of cultivated crops), but is not limited thereto, and may predict the yield numerically.

[0043] The calculation unit 84 calculates the set temperature inside the greenhouse H for maximizing the profit based on the yield predicted by the yield prediction unit 83. For example, when it is determined that the yield predicted by the yield prediction unit 83 is a bumper crop, the calculation unit 84 calculates the quality temperature for maximizing the quality as the set temperature based on the correlation data stored in the storage unit 81. Similarly, when it is determined that the yield predicted by the yield prediction unit 83 is a poor crop, the calculation unit 84 calculates the yield temperature for maximizing the yield as the set temperature based on the correlation data. Note that when it is an intermediate case that is neither a bumper crop nor a poor crop, the calculation unit 84 may calculate an intermediate temperature for achieving both as the set temperature, or when it is a slightly bumper crop, a temperature slightly closer to the quality temperature than the intermediate temperature may be set as the set temperature.

[0044] The operation control unit 85 controls the temperature inside the greenhouse H based on the set temperature calculated by the calculation unit 84, and performs control to maintain the carbon dioxide concentration inside the greenhouse H at a predetermined concentration or higher. Note that the carbon dioxide concentration may be controlled to be always maintained at a predetermined concentration or higher, or may be controlled to be maintained at a predetermined concentration or higher only during the time period when sunlight is present.

[0045] Here, the control for maintaining the carbon dioxide concentration will be described in detail. On page 3 of the reference document, the correlation between the yield and quality when carbon dioxide is supplied (applied) and when it is not is described. According to this description, for example, for a specific crop, when the number of plants per bag is 8, 10, and 12, and a comparison is made between the case where carbon dioxide is supplied and the case where it is not supplied for each, the yield is higher when carbon dioxide is supplied in all cases of the number of plants.

[0046] Further, as a result of comparing the soluble solid concentration (i.e., equivalent to the sugar content), for a specific crop, when the number of plants per bag was 8, 10, and 12, respectively, the sugar content (quality) was higher when carbon dioxide was supplied than when it was not supplied for each case.

[0047] Also, on page 5 of the reference document, the correlation between the photosynthesis rate of a specific crop, the solar radiation amount, and the carbon dioxide concentration is explained, and it is explained that the photosynthesis rate increases as the solar radiation amount increases. Furthermore, it is also explained that the photosynthesis rate tends to increase as the carbon dioxide concentration increases. Therefore, by maintaining the carbon dioxide concentration at a predetermined concentration or higher, photosynthesis can be carried out at a stable rate.

[0048] From the above, it can be said that supplying carbon dioxide so as to promote it without inhibiting photosynthesis is desirable for both yield and quality. Thus, the operation control unit 85 according to the present embodiment controls to maintain the carbon dioxide concentration at a predetermined concentration or higher at least during the time when sunlight is present.

[0049] Furthermore, in the present embodiment, the absorption chiller / heater 10 generates a cold liquid and sends it to the blower 20, and by operating the fan of the blower 20, dew condensation can occur in the blower 20, enabling dehumidification operation. For this reason, when the humidity detected by the temperature and humidity sensor TH becomes a predetermined humidity or higher, the operation control unit 85 causes the absorption chiller / heater 10 to generate a cold liquid and operates the fan of the blower 20 to perform dehumidification operation. Thereby, a high humidity state that inhibits the transpiration of the cultivated crop can be eliminated.

[0050] Note that when a cold liquid is generated from the absorption chiller / heater 10 and the blower 20 is operated, a cooling effect is also exhibited. Therefore, adjustment may be made by, for example, partially stopping the heat exchange in the high-temperature heat exchanger 71 and the low-temperature heat exchanger 72 and supplying the high-temperature exhaust gas into the house H.

[0051] Further, the operation control unit 85 preferably executes control to increase the carbon dioxide concentration in the house H as the solar radiation amount detected by the solar radiation sensor S becomes lower within a range equal to or higher than a predetermined value (for example, 100 W / m 2 ). As described on page 5 of the reference document, when the solar radiation amount decreases, the photosynthesis rate tends to decrease. Therefore, in order to suppress the decrease in the photosynthesis rate, it is preferable to increase the carbon dioxide concentration. This is because it can suppress the decrease in yield and quality.

[0052] Note that if the solar radiation amount falls below the predetermined value and becomes too low (especially 30 W / m 2 or less), no improvement in the photosynthesis rate can be expected even if the carbon dioxide concentration is increased. Therefore, when the solar radiation amount is less than the predetermined value, the operation control unit 85 stops the control itself to maintain the carbon dioxide concentration at a predetermined concentration or higher.

[0053] Also, in this embodiment, since the absorption chiller / heater 10 can obtain a cooling liquid or a heating liquid, cooling operation and heating operation are possible. Among these, it can be said that the period during which the heating operation is performed is a period when the total solar radiation amount throughout the day, such as in winter, is small. When the atmospheric pressure detected by the atmospheric pressure sensor B is equal to or higher than a predetermined atmospheric pressure (that is, when it can be determined that it is not a rainy day) during such a period, the operation control unit 85 executes control to increase the carbon dioxide concentration in the house H prior to sunrise. Thereby, photosynthesis can be efficiently performed in a case where the promotion of photosynthesis is restricted, such as in winter.

[0054] In addition, when performing control to maintain the carbon dioxide concentration at a predetermined concentration or higher, it is not necessary to cool or heat the inside of the house H. Therefore, in such a case, it is preferable to store heat in the heat storage tank 30. However, due to the relationship with the maximum heat storage capacity of the heat storage tank 30, it is also necessary to discard heat. Thus, when the amount of heat stored in the heat storage tank 30 is equal to or more than a predetermined value (a state close to the full heat state, for example, 90% or more of the maximum heat storage capacity), the operation control unit 85 also has a function of discarding heat from the cooling tower CT via the second low-temperature heat exchanger 73. In this function, the operation control unit 85 first determines whether the amount of heat stored in the heat storage tank 30 is equal to or more than a predetermined value based on information from the third and fourth temperature sensors T3 and T4. Then, when the amount of heat stored is less than the predetermined value, the operation control unit 85 stores heat in the heat storage tank 30, and when the amount of heat stored is equal to or more than the predetermined value, it transfers the heat of the cold liquid or heating liquid in the first pipe L1 to the cooling tower CT side via the second low-temperature heat exchanger 73 to discard it.

[0055] Furthermore, the control device 80 is configured to also control a water supply device that supplies water to the soil inside the house H. That is, the control device 80 controls so as to maintain the soil inside the house H in a moist state suitable for the growth of cultivated crops.

[0056] Next, a control method for the house cultivation system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described. FIGS. 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing the control method for the house cultivation system 1 according to the present embodiment. Note that the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are repeatedly executed until the power of the control device 80 is turned off.

[0057] First, the control device 80 determines whether to perform a cooling operation (S1). For example, when it is determined in advance for each month whether to cool or heat, the control device 80 determines whether to perform a cooling operation by determining the current month. Also, the control device 80 may determine whether to perform a cooling operation based on the relationship between the temperature inside the house H detected by the temperature and humidity sensor TH and the set temperature calculated by the calculation unit 84.

[0058] When it is determined that cooling operation should be performed (S1: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the solar radiation amount is 300 W / m 2 (first solar radiation amount) or more based on the signal from the solar radiation sensor S (S2).

[0059] When the solar radiation amount is 300 W / m 2 or more (S2: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the carbon dioxide concentration is 700 ppm or more based on the signal from the first carbon dioxide sensor C1 (S3).

[0060] [[ID=!2]]When it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is less than 700 ppm (S3: NO), the operation control unit 85 executes CO2 maintenance control to compensate for the shortage of carbon dioxide (S4). In the CO2 maintenance control, the operation control unit 85 generates a cooling liquid from the absorption chiller 10 and controls the three-way valve V to perform heat storage in the heat storage tank 30. Further, the operation control unit 85 closes the damper 40 to supply the exhaust gas into the house H. In the CO2 maintenance control, the fan of the blower 20 is stopped, and the high ventilation operation of the ventilation fan 60 is not performed. Also, in the CO2 maintenance control, heat storage is performed in the heat storage tank 30, but when the heat storage amount of the heat storage tank 30 becomes a predetermined value or more, the cooling heat is discarded from the cooling tower CT through the second low-temperature heat exchanger 73. After the execution of the CO2 maintenance control (for example, after increasing the carbon dioxide concentration until it is determined as "YES" in step S3), the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0061] When it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is 700 ppm or more (S3: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the indoor temperature of the house is OFF based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S5). In this process, the indoor temperature of the house is determined with temperature hysteresis. The ON / OFF state is set to ON when the indoor temperature of the house becomes 35°C or more in the OFF state of the indoor temperature of the house, and set to OFF when the indoor temperature of the house becomes 25°C or less in the ON state of the indoor temperature of the house. In this case, the set temperature is, for example, 30°C or more between 25°C and 35°C and less than 35°C at which the indoor temperature of the house switches to ON.

[0062] When the indoor temperature of the house is not OFF (S5: NO), that is, when the indoor temperature of the house is high, the operation control unit 85 executes cooling control to lower the indoor temperature of the house (S6). In the cooling control, the operation control unit 85 generates a cooling liquid from the absorption chiller / heater 10 and operates the fan of the blower 20. Thereby, the cooling heat is distributed in the house H. In the cooling control, although the operation control unit 85 closes the damper 40 to supply the exhaust gas into the house H, since it is not control for the purpose of increasing the carbon dioxide concentration, when the carbon dioxide concentration reaches an abnormal value (for example, 2000 ppm), high ventilation operation will be performed. Further, when the cooling heat is stored in the heat storage tank 30, the three-way valve V may be controlled to utilize the cooling heat of the heat storage tank 30. In addition, if possible, the operation of the absorption chiller / heater 10 may be stopped and the cooling control may be performed only with the cooling heat of the heat storage tank 30. After the execution of the cooling control (for example, after lowering the indoor temperature of the house until it is determined as "YES" in step S5), the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0063] When the indoor temperature of the house is OFF (S5: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the indoor humidity of the house is OFF based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S7). In this process, the humidity determination of the indoor humidity also has hysteresis. The ON / OFF state is set to ON when the indoor humidity becomes 0.023 kg / kg or more in the state where the indoor humidity is OFF, and is set to OFF when the indoor humidity becomes 0.011 kg / kg or less in the state where the indoor humidity is ON.

[0064] When the indoor humidity of the house is not OFF (S7: NO), that is, when the indoor humidity of the house is high, the operation control unit 85 executes dehumidification control (S8) to prevent evaporation from being inhibited. In the dehumidification control, the operation control unit 85 generates a cold liquid from the absorption chiller / heater 10 and operates the fan of the blower 20. As a result, the air in the house H is condensed by the first pipe L1 of the blower 20, and the air in the house H is dehumidified. In the dehumidification control, the damper 40 is opened and the flue gas is discharged into the upper air. However, since the heat from the blower 20 is distributed in the house H along with the dehumidification control, part of the flue gas may be taken in so that the indoor temperature does not drop too much. Also, in the dehumidification control, the operation control unit 85 may control the three-way valve V to utilize the cold heat of the heat storage tank 30, or may store heat in the heat storage tank 30 to prevent the indoor temperature from dropping too much. Further, in the dehumidification control, although the operation control unit 85 assumes that the high ventilation operation of the ventilation fan 60 is not performed, it may be performed. After the execution of the dehumidification control (for example, after reducing the indoor humidity until it is determined as "YES" in step S7), the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0065] When the indoor humidity of the house is OFF (S7: YES), the operation control unit 85 executes stop control (S9). In the stop control, the operation control unit 85 does not operate the absorption chiller / heater 10 and also stops the fan of the blower 20. Further, the operation control unit 85 does not perform the high ventilation operation of the ventilation fan 60 and sets the three-way valve V in a direction not using the heat storage tank 30. Regarding the damper 40, it may be in an open state or a closed state. Then, the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0066] By the way, when the solar radiation amount is not 300 W / m 2 or more (S2: NO), the operation control unit 85 determines based on the signal from the solar radiation sensor S whether the solar radiation amount is 100 W / m 2 (the second solar radiation amount and the above predetermined value) or more (S10). When the solar radiation amount is 100 W / m 2If the above conditions are met (S10: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the carbon dioxide concentration is 900 ppm or more based on the signal from the first carbon dioxide sensor C1 (S11).

[0067] If it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is less than 900 ppm (S11: NO), the operation control unit 85 executes CO2 maintenance control to compensate for the shortage of carbon dioxide (S12). The details of the CO2 maintenance control are the same as those described in step S4. Here, in the process of step S11, it is determined whether the carbon dioxide concentration is 900 ppm or more, which is higher than the process of step S3. That is, since the solar radiation amount in the process of step S11 is lower than that in the process of step S3, in order to suppress the decrease in the photosynthesis rate, a higher carbon dioxide concentration is required. By this process, within the range where the solar radiation amount is equal to or higher than a predetermined value, the lower the solar radiation amount, the higher the carbon dioxide concentration will be controlled. After the execution of the CO2 maintenance control (for example, after increasing the carbon dioxide concentration until it is determined as "YES" in step S11), the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0068] If it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is 900 ppm or more (S11: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the temperature inside the house is OFF based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S13). This process is the same as the process of step S5.

[0069] If the temperature inside the house is not OFF (S13: NO), that is, if the temperature inside the house is high, the operation control unit 85 executes cooling control to lower the temperature inside the house (S14). This process is the same as the process of step S6. After the execution of the cooling control (for example, after lowering the temperature inside the house until it is determined as "YES" in step S13), the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0070] If the temperature inside the house is OFF (S13: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the humidity inside the house is OFF based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S15). This process is the same as the process of step S7.

[0071] When the indoor humidity of the house is not OFF (S15: NO), that is, when the indoor humidity of the house is high, the operation control unit 85 executes dehumidification control (S16) to prevent transpiration from being inhibited. This process is the same as the process in step S8. After the execution of the dehumidification control (for example, after reducing the indoor humidity of the house until it is determined as "YES" in step S15), the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0072] When the indoor humidity of the house is OFF (S15: YES), the operation control unit 85 executes stop control (S17). This process is the same as the process in step S9. Then, the process shown in FIG. 3 ends.

[0073] Here, as is clear from the processes after step S3, the operation control unit 85 gives priority to the control for maintaining a carbon dioxide concentration of a predetermined concentration or more in the house H over the process of controlling the indoor temperature of the house based on the set temperature calculated by the calculation unit 84. That is, the operation control unit 85 executes CO2 maintenance control (S4, S12) prior to cooling control (S6, S14). Thereby, the control that can improve both quality and yield, such as CO2 maintenance control, is preferentially executed to maximize the profit more.

[0074] In addition, the operation control unit 85 executes the process of controlling the indoor temperature of the house based on the set temperature prior to the control for performing dehumidification operation when the humidity detected by the temperature and humidity sensor TH becomes a predetermined humidity (0.011 kg / kg) or more. That is, the operation control unit 85 executes cooling control (S6, S14) prior to dehumidification control (S8, S16). Thereby, by preferentially performing temperature management, which has a higher influence on the cultivated crops than transpiration, the profit is maximized more.

[0075] By the way, when the solar radiation amount is 100 W / m 2If not (S10: NO), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the indoor temperature of the house is OFF based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S18). Also in this process, although the indoor temperature of the house is determined with temperature hysteresis, the temperature conditions are different from those in the processes of steps S5 and S13. That is, the ON / OFF state is set to ON when the indoor temperature of the house becomes 35°C or higher in the state where the indoor temperature of the house is OFF, and is set to OFF when the indoor temperature of the house becomes 33°C or lower in the state where the indoor temperature of the house is ON.

[0076] If the indoor temperature of the house is OFF (S18: YES), the process proceeds to step S9. On the other hand, if the indoor temperature of the house is not OFF (S18: NO), the operation control unit 85 executes ventilation control (S19). Here, the fact that "NO" is determined in step S10 means that it can be said that it is rainy or nighttime. In such a case, since photosynthesis cannot be expected, the control to maintain the carbon dioxide concentration at a predetermined concentration or higher is not performed. Also, since nighttime and rainy days are assumed, a decrease in the indoor temperature of the house can be expected by performing ventilation. Therefore, the operation control unit 85 executes ventilation control in step S19. In this process, the operation control unit 85 enables the high ventilation operation of the ventilation fan 60 and makes the others the same as the stop control. After the execution of the ventilation control (for example, after lowering the indoor temperature of the house until "YES" is determined in step S18), the process shown in Figure 3 ends.

[0077] Also, if it is determined in step S1 that cooling operation should not be performed (S1: NO), the operation control unit 85 determines whether it is a rainy day based on the signal from the atmospheric pressure sensor B (based on whether it is below a predetermined atmospheric pressure) (S20). If it is determined that it is a rainy day (S20: YES), the process proceeds to step S22.

[0078] When it is determined that it is not a rainy day (S20: NO), the driving control unit 85 executes CO2 generation control before sunrise (S21). In this process, the driving control unit 85 generates a heating liquid from the absorption chiller / heater 10 and controls the three-way valve V to perform heat storage in the heat storage tank 30. Further, the driving control unit 85 closes the damper 40 to supply the exhaust gas into the house H. In the CO2 generation control, the fan of the blower 20 is stopped, and the high ventilation operation of the ventilation fan 60 is not performed. Also, in the CO2 generation control, heat storage is performed in the heat storage tank 30. However, when the heat storage amount of the heat storage tank 30 becomes a predetermined value or more, the cold heat is discarded from the cooling tower CT through the second low-temperature heat exchanger 73. After the execution of the CO2 generation control (for example, after increasing the carbon dioxide concentration to 700 ppm or 900 ppm), the process proceeds to step S22.

[0079] In step S22, based on the signal from the solar radiation sensor S, the driving control unit 85 determines whether the solar radiation amount is 300 W / m 2 or more (S22). When the solar radiation amount is 300 W / m 2 or more (S22: YES), based on the signal from the first carbon dioxide sensor C1, the driving control unit 85 determines whether the carbon dioxide concentration is 700 ppm or more (S23).

[0080] When it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is not 700 ppm or more (S23: NO), the driving control unit 85 executes CO2 maintenance control to supplement the shortage of carbon dioxide (S24). In the CO2 maintenance control, the driving control unit 85 generates a heating liquid from the absorption chiller / heater 10 and controls the three-way valve V to perform heat storage in the heat storage tank 30. The rest is the same as the CO2 maintenance control in step S4 of FIG. 3. After the execution of the CO2 maintenance control (for example, after increasing the carbon dioxide concentration until it is determined as "YES" in step S23), the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are terminated.

[0081] When it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is 700 ppm or more (S23: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the indoor temperature of the house is ON based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S25). In this process, the indoor temperature of the house is determined with hysteresis in the same manner as described above. The ON / OFF state is set to ON when the indoor temperature of the house reaches 20°C or more in the state where the indoor temperature of the house is OFF, and is set to OFF when the indoor temperature of the house reaches 15°C or less in the state where the indoor temperature of the house is ON. In this case, the set temperature is, for example, 17.5°C or more between 15°C and 20°C and less than 20°C at which the indoor temperature of the house switches to ON.

[0082] When the indoor temperature of the house is not ON (S25: NO), that is, when the indoor temperature of the house is low, the operation control unit 85 executes heating control to increase the indoor temperature of the house (S26). In the heating control, the operation control unit 85 generates a heating liquid from the absorption chiller / heater 10 and operates the fan of the blower 20. Thereby, heat is distributed in the house H. In the heating control, the operation control unit 85 closes the damper 40 to supply the exhaust gas into the house H. However, since it is not control for the purpose of increasing the carbon dioxide concentration, when the carbon dioxide concentration reaches an abnormal value (for example, 2000 ppm), high ventilation operation will be performed. Also, when heat is stored in the heat storage tank 30, the three-way valve V may be controlled to utilize the heat of the heat storage tank 30. In addition, if possible, the operation of the absorption chiller / heater 10 may be stopped and the heating control may be performed only with the heat of the heat storage tank 30. After the execution of the heating control (for example, after increasing the indoor temperature of the house until it is determined as "YES" in step S25), the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are terminated.

[0083] When the indoor temperature is ON (S25: YES), the operation control unit 85 executes stop control (S27). In the stop control, the operation control unit 85 does not operate the absorption chiller 10 and also stops the fan of the blower 20. Further, the operation control unit 85 does not perform the high ventilation operation of the ventilation fan 60 and sets the three-way valve V in a direction that does not use the heat storage tank 30. Note that the damper 40 may be in an open state or a closed state. Thereafter, the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are terminated.

[0084] By the way, when the solar radiation amount is less than 300 W / m 2 (S22: NO), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the solar radiation amount is 100 W / m 2 or more based on the signal from the solar radiation sensor S (S28). When the solar radiation amount is 100 W / m 2 or more (S28: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the carbon dioxide concentration is 900 ppm or more based on the signal from the first carbon dioxide sensor C1 (S29).

[0085] When it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is less than 900 ppm (S29: NO), the operation control unit 85 executes CO2 maintenance control (S30) to supplement the shortage of carbon dioxide. The details of the CO2 maintenance control are the same as those described in step S24. Also, as in the case of cooling, in the process of step S29, it is determined whether the carbon dioxide concentration is 900 ppm or more, which is a higher carbon dioxide concentration than the process of step S24, so as to require a higher carbon dioxide concentration. After the execution of the CO2 maintenance control (for example, after increasing the carbon dioxide concentration until it is determined as "YES" in step S29), the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 are terminated.

[0086] When it is determined that the carbon dioxide concentration is 900 ppm or more (S29: YES), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the indoor temperature is ON based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S31). This process is the same as the process of step S25.

[0087] When the indoor temperature of the house is not ON (S31: NO), that is, when the indoor temperature of the house is low, the operation control unit 85 executes heating control to raise the indoor temperature of the house (S32). This process is the same as the process in step S26. After the execution of the heating control (for example, after raising the indoor temperature of the house until it is determined as "YES" in step S31), the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 end.

[0088] When the indoor temperature of the house is ON (S31: YES), the operation control unit 85 executes stop control (S33). This process is the same as the process in step S27. Thereafter, the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 end.

[0089] Here, as is clear from the processes after step S22, the operation control unit 85 does not perform dehumidification control when it is determined as "NO" in step S1, that is, when it is determined that heating operation should be performed. This is because it is often winter when heating is required and there is no need for dehumidification.

[0090] By the way, when the solar radiation amount is not 100 W / m 2 or more (S28: NO), the operation control unit 85 determines whether the indoor temperature of the house is ON based on the signal from the temperature and humidity sensor TH (S34). Also in this process, the indoor temperature is determined with temperature hysteresis, but the temperature conditions are different from the processes in steps S25 and S31. That is, the ON / OFF state is set to ON when the indoor temperature becomes 15°C or higher in the state where the indoor temperature of the house is OFF, and is set to OFF when the indoor temperature becomes 10°C or lower in the state where the indoor temperature of the house is ON.

[0091] When the indoor temperature of the house is ON (S34: YES), the process proceeds to step S27. On the other hand, when the indoor temperature of the house is not ON (S34: NO), the process proceeds to step S26. Thereafter, the processes shown in FIGS. 3 and 4 end.

[0092] Thus, according to the house cultivation system 1 and its control method according to this embodiment, future weather conditions are set for the growth prediction period of the cultivated crops to be cultivated in the house H, the yield of the crops to be cultivated is predicted based on the set weather conditions, and the set temperature is calculated based on the predicted yield. Therefore, for example, it is possible to determine whether this season is a bumper crop or a poor crop, etc., and when this season is a bumper crop, the cultivated crops can be grown so as to maximize the profit, such as improving the quality. Furthermore, since the control for maintaining the carbon dioxide concentration in the house H at a predetermined concentration or higher is executed, photosynthesis can be prevented from being inhibited, and both the yield and the quality can be improved. Therefore, the profit can be maximized.

[0093] Further, when it is determined that the crop is a bumper crop based on the predicted crop yield, a quality temperature that maximizes the quality of the cultivated crops in the house H is calculated as the set temperature. Therefore, when it is a bumper crop, the quality can be maximized and the profit can be maximized.

[0094] Also, when it is determined that the crop is a poor crop based on the predicted crop yield, a yield temperature that maximizes the yield of the cultivated crops in the house is calculated as the set temperature. Therefore, when it is a poor crop, the yield can be maximized and the profit can be maximized.

[0095] In addition, the control for maintaining the carbon dioxide concentration in the house H at a predetermined concentration or higher is executed with priority over the process of controlling the temperature in the house H. Therefore, instead of a control such as temperature control that is difficult to balance both quality and yield, a control such as CO2 maintenance control that can improve both yield and quality by photosynthesis is executed, and the profit can be further maximized.

[0096] In addition, since a dehumidification operation is performed when the humidity in the house H becomes equal to or higher than a predetermined humidity, it is possible to reduce the possibility that the humidity in the house H becomes too high and the transpiration of the cultivated crops is inhibited, which may hinder the growth.

[0097] In addition, in order to execute a process of controlling the temperature inside the house H based on the set temperature with priority over the control for dehumidifying operation, by prioritizing temperature management that has a higher impact on the cultivated crops than transpiration, it is possible to further maximize the profit.

[0098] In addition, the lower the solar radiation amount is within the range of a predetermined value (100 W / m 2 ), the higher the carbon dioxide concentration inside the house H is controlled. Therefore, in an environment where the solar radiation amount is low and the photosynthesis rate decreases, it is possible to increase the carbon dioxide concentration to increase the photosynthesis rate. Thus, it is possible to further maximize the profit.

[0099] In addition, when the solar radiation amount is less than the predetermined value, the control for maintaining the carbon dioxide concentration inside the house H at a predetermined concentration or higher is stopped. Therefore, for example, when photosynthesis cannot be expected at night or on rainy days, the control for maintaining the CO2 concentration is stopped. Thus, it is possible to stop unnecessary control and simplify the process.

[0100] In addition, when the heating operation is set and the atmospheric pressure is equal to or higher than the predetermined atmospheric pressure, before sunrise, the control for increasing the carbon dioxide concentration inside the house H is executed. For this reason, in an environment where the sunshine hours are short in winter due to the heating operation, by increasing the carbon dioxide concentration before sunrise, it is possible to efficiently perform photosynthesis and further maximize the profit.

[0101] In addition, when performing the control for maintaining the carbon dioxide concentration, heat is stored in the heat storage tank 30, and when it becomes impossible to store heat even in the heat storage tank 30, it is discarded using the cooling tower CT. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the possibility of affecting the temperature environment inside the house H due to unnecessary heat.

[0102] As described above, the present invention has been described based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and modifications may be made without departing from the gist of the present invention, and other technologies may be appropriately combined within the possible range. Furthermore, known or well-known technologies may be combined within the possible range.

[0103] For example, in the CO2 maintenance control according to the above embodiment, when the current carbon dioxide concentration in the house H is less than 400 ppm (that is, less than the carbon dioxide concentration in the outside air), ventilation control may be first performed. In this case, during cooling, it is preferable to perform ventilation control when the temperature detected by the fifth temperature sensor T5 is lower than the temperature in the house H detected by the temperature and humidity sensor TH. The same applies during heating.

Explanation of Signs

[0104] 1: House cultivation system 10: Absorption chiller (air conditioning equipment) 20: Blower (air conditioning equipment) 30: Heat storage tank 70: Heat exchanger 71: High-temperature heat exchanger 72: Low-temperature heat exchanger 73: Second low-temperature heat exchanger (heat exchanger) 81: Memory unit (memory means) 82: Setting unit (setting means) 82a: Input unit 82b: Weather prediction unit 83: Yield prediction unit (prediction means) 84: Calculation unit (calculation means) 85: Operation control unit (control means) B: Atmospheric pressure sensor C1: First carbon dioxide sensor (carbon dioxide sensor) C2: Second carbon dioxide sensor CT: Cooling tower H: House L1: First pipe (pipe) L2: Second pipe S: Solar radiation sensor TH: Temperature and humidity sensor (temperature sensor, humidity sensor)

Claims

1. A house cultivation system that supplies carbon dioxide contained in the flue gas generated by combustion into the house, utilizing combustion, capable of switching between a refrigeration cycle using a regenerator, a condenser, an evaporator, and an absorber and a heating cycle using a regenerator, an evaporator, and an absorber, selectively providing a cooling effect and a heating effect in the house, and comprising an absorption chiller having means for utilizing the heat of the flue gas generated by combustion The house cultivation system characterized by this.

2. A house cultivation system that supplies carbon dioxide contained in the flue gas generated by combustion into the house, utilizing combustion, capable of switching between a refrigeration cycle using a regenerator, a condenser, an evaporator, and an absorber and a heating cycle using a regenerator, an evaporator, and an absorber, selectively providing a cooling effect and a heating effect in the house, an absorption chiller, a flow path provided outside the absorption chiller through which the flue gas generated by combustion flows, means provided in the flow path for utilizing the heat of the flue gas generated by combustion, The house cultivation system characterized by comprising these.

3. further comprising a flue gas treatment device for removing sulfur components and nitrogen oxides contained in the flue gas, the carbon dioxide contained in the flue gas is supplied into the house after the sulfur components and nitrogen oxides are removed from the flue gas by the flue gas treatment device The house cultivation system according to any one of Claims 1 or 2, characterized by this.

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