Hydroponic cultivation device

Abstract

To provide a hydroponic cultivation device capable of suppressing the growth of algae while reducing the cost required for temperature control.SOLUTION: A hydroponic cultivation device includes: a cultivation bed 10 in which an internal space S1 is formed to store a culture solution F whose temperature is controlled, the cultivation bed being configured such that a plant P is planted with its roots immersed in the culture solution F within the internal space S1 and is partly exposed to an external space; a temperature control member in which a temperature control space is formed, the temperature of which is adjusted by the culture solution F contained therein; a connection portion 60 that connects the temperature control space and the external space of the cultivation bed 10 to allow air circulation between the temperature control space and the external space of the cultivation bed 10; a fan 70 that generates an airflow from the temperature control space toward the external space of the cultivation bed 10 via the connection portion 60, thereby regulating the temperature around the plant P; and a light-shielding portion configured to block light traveling from the external space of the cultivation bed 10 toward the temperature control space.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a hydroponic cultivation device technology. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, techniques for hydroponic cultivation devices for cultivating plants by hydroponic cultivation have been publicly known, as described in Patent Document 1, for example.

[0003] The hydroponic cultivation device described in Patent Document 1 includes a cultivation tank that stores a nutrient solution and a cultivation bed that floats on the nutrient solution. The cultivation bed includes a plurality of cultivation pallets in which plants are planted so that their roots are submerged in the nutrient solution. The plurality of cultivation pallets are connected to each other so as to block light from reaching the entire surface of the nutrient solution. This allows the hydroponic cultivation device to separate the internal space of the cultivation tank from the external space, preventing light from reaching the nutrient solution and suppressing the growth of algae.

[0004] When growing plants, it is desirable to adjust the temperature of the nutrient solution and the air temperature around the plants to temperatures suitable for plant growth. Furthermore, if the air temperature around the plants were adjusted solely using air conditioning equipment, there would be concerns about increased utility costs, so it is desirable to reduce the costs required for temperature adjustment. One method for reducing these costs is to transfer the cold or heat of the temperature-adjusted nutrient solution to the area around the plants. In the hydroponic cultivation device described in Patent Document 1, a portion of the plants is exposed to the external space of the cultivation tank via the cultivation bed. Therefore, in order to adjust the air temperature around the plants using the nutrient solution, it is necessary to circulate the cold or heat of the nutrient solution from the internal space of the cultivation tank to the external space.

[0005] However, the hydroponic cultivation device described in Patent Document 1 separates the internal space of the cultivation tank from the external space to suppress the growth of algae, making it difficult to circulate the heat and cold of the culture solution to the external space of the cultivation tank. Thus, while the hydroponic cultivation device described in Patent Document 1 can suppress the growth of algae, it is difficult to reduce the cost required for temperature regulation. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-150072 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0007] The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned circumstances, and the problem it aims to solve is to provide a hydroponic cultivation device that can suppress the growth of algae and reduce the costs required for temperature regulation. [Means for solving the problem]

[0008] The problem to be solved by the present invention is as described above, and the means for solving this problem will now be described.

[0009] That is, in claim 1, the device comprises a cultivation element that forms an internal space in which a temperature-controlled nutrient solution is stored, and in which plants are planted so that their roots are immersed in the nutrient solution and part of them is exposed to the external space; a temperature-control element that forms a temperature-controlled space in which the temperature is controlled by the nutrient solution inside; a connection part that connects the temperature-controlled space and the external space of the cultivation element to each other so that air can circulate between the temperature-controlled space and the external space of the cultivation element; a fan that controls the temperature around the plant by generating an air flow from the temperature-controlled space to the external space of the cultivation element via the connection part; and a shading part that is configured to block light from the external space of the cultivation element toward the temperature-controlled space.

[0010] In claim 2, the light-shielding portion includes a first light-shielding portion configured to block light passing through the cultivation member.

[0011] In claim 3, the planter further comprises a cover that covers a portion of the plant that is exposed to the space outside the cultivation member, and the space outside the cultivation member is a space surrounded by the cover and the cultivation member.

[0012] In claim 4, the cultivation device further comprises a supply unit capable of supplying carbon dioxide gas to the external space of the cultivation member.

[0013] In claim 5, the connecting portion includes a tubular portion that connects the external space of the cultivation member and the temperature-controlled space, and the shading portion includes a second shading portion configured to block light that travels toward the temperature-controlled space through the tubular portion.

[0014] In claim 6, the second light-shielding portion includes a bent portion formed in the cylindrical portion.

[0015] In claim 7, the bent portion is formed by folding back the tubular portion so that the air flow direction inside the tubular portion is reversed.

[0016] In claim 8, the temperature-controlled space includes the internal space of the cultivation member, and the cylindrical portion is connected to the internal space of the cultivation member via a surface other than the upper surface of the cultivation member.

[0017] In claim 9, the tubular portion is formed with a plurality of outlets arranged along the longitudinal direction of the tubular portion, which blow out air guided from the temperature-controlled space toward the external space of the cultivation member.

[0018] In claim 10, the air conditioner further comprises a control unit that controls the fan depending on the season and time of day. [Effects of the Invention]

[0019] The present invention has the following effects.

[0020] According to claim 1, it is possible to suppress the growth of algae and reduce the cost required for temperature regulation.

[0021] According to claim 2, it is possible to prevent light from reaching the culture solution stored in the cultivation member, thereby preventing the growth of algae in the internal space of the cultivation member.

[0022] In claim 3, the external space of the cultivation member can be made relatively narrow, so that the amount of energy required for temperature regulation can be reduced.

[0023] According to claim 4, it is possible to prevent a shortage of carbon dioxide from adversely affecting plant growth.

[0024] According to claim 5, it is possible to prevent light from reaching the culture solution in the temperature-controlled space through the cylindrical portion.

[0025] In claim 6, the bent portion can prevent light from traveling inside the cylindrical portion.

[0026] In claim 7, the bent portion can effectively block light from traveling inside the cylindrical portion.

[0027] According to claim 8, the upper surface of the cultivation member can be effectively utilized. For example, more plants can be planted on the upper surface of the cultivation member.

[0028] In claim 9, the temperature of the space outside the cultivation member can be made uniform by blowing air guided from the temperature-controlled space through multiple outlets. Also, blowing air onto the plants from multiple outlets can scatter pollen and facilitate contact between stamens and pistils, thereby promoting pollination.

[0029] According to claim 10, the temperature of the space outside the cultivation member can be appropriately adjusted depending on the season and time of day. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0030] [Figure 1] 1 is a cross-sectional view showing a hydroponic cultivation device according to a first embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the flow directions of air and culture medium. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a hydroponic cultivation device according to a second embodiment. [Figure 4] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a hydroponic cultivation device according to a third embodiment. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a cross-sectional view showing a hydroponic cultivation device according to a fourth embodiment. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of carbon dioxide supply and fan control according to season and time of day. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0031] In the following description, the up / down direction and the left / right direction are defined according to the arrows shown in the drawings.

[0032] A hydroponic cultivation device 1 according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described below.

[0033] The hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 shown in FIG. 1 is used to cultivate a plant P. The hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 of this embodiment is used in greenhouse horticulture, where the plant P is cultivated using a facility such as a greenhouse. The type of plant P cultivated in the hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 is not particularly limited, but legumes such as soybeans can be used, for example. The hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 cultivates the plant P by hydroponics (nutrient solution cultivation) using a culture solution F. The culture solution F is prepared by dissolving fertilizer in water. As the culture solution F, for example, a liquid containing nutrients necessary for the growth of the plant P (nitrogen, phosphorus, potassium, calcium, magnesium, sulfur, iron, manganese, etc.) can be used.

[0034] Here, the nutrients contained in the culture solution F are also nutrients that cause the growth and development of algae (necessary for the growth of algae, etc.), so if the culture solution F is exposed to light, algae may grow in the culture solution F. In this case, the algae may take the nutrients or interfere with the absorption of oxygen, which may have a negative impact on the growth of the plant P. In addition, the algae must be removed, which makes cleaning time-consuming. Furthermore, in hydroponic cultivation, if the temperature of the culture solution F and the air temperature around the plant P are not suitable for the growth of the plant P, the growth of the plant P may be negatively affected.

[0035] For this reason, when performing hydroponic cultivation, it is desirable to suppress the growth of algae and to regulate the temperature of the culture solution F, etc. Furthermore, if the temperature around the plants P were to be regulated solely by the facility's air conditioning equipment, there is a concern that utility costs would increase, so it is also desirable to reduce the costs required for temperature regulation.

[0036] The hydroponic cultivation device 1 is capable of suppressing the growth of algae and reducing the cost required for temperature regulation. The configuration of the hydroponic cultivation device 1 will be described below with reference to Figure 1. The hydroponic cultivation device 1 includes a cultivation bed 10, a closing member 20, a cover unit 30, a nutrient solution tank 40, a temperature regulation unit 50, a connection unit 60, and a fan 70.

[0037] The cultivation bed 10 is a component for cultivating plants P in a location separate from soil. The cultivation bed 10 comprises a main body 11 and a planting panel 12. The main body 11 is formed into a box shape with an open top by a bottom 11a and side wall portions 11b. The main body 11 is also formed into a longitudinal shape extending in a predetermined direction (the left-right direction in this embodiment). The main body 11 is made of a material with relatively high thermal insulation properties. The main body 11 comprises an attachment portion 11c.

[0038] The mounting portion 11c is a portion to which the connecting portion 60, which will be described later, is attached. The mounting portion 11c is configured to connect the inside and outside of the main body portion 11 to each other. In this embodiment, the mounting portion 11c is configured as a plate-like member with its plate surface facing in the vertical direction and with a through-hole (not shown) that penetrates vertically. The mounting portion 11c is provided at the upper end of the side wall portion 11b. The mounting portion 11c is also provided at both left and right ends of the main body portion 11.

[0039] The mounting portion 11c is configured to suppress light transmission (to block light). For example, the mounting portion 11c is made of a material colored in a color that easily absorbs light (for example, a relatively dark color such as black). By coloring the entire mounting portion 11c (surface and interior) in a color that easily absorbs light, the mounting portion 11c can easily absorb light that passes through the interior of the mounting portion 11c, thereby suppressing light transmission through the mounting portion 11c. Note that in FIG. 1, members configured to suppress light transmission are indicated by thick lines.

[0040] The configuration for suppressing light transmission is not limited to that of this embodiment (which promotes light absorption), and various configurations can be adopted. For example, it is possible to suppress light transmission by providing a portion on the surface that easily reflects light.

[0041] The planting panel 12 is used to plant plants P. The planting panel 12 is formed in a plate shape with the plate surface facing up and down. A plurality of holes 12a are formed in the planting panel 12, penetrating vertically. The holes 12a are formed, for example, in a circular shape in a plan view. The planting panel 12 is fixed to the main body 11 and arranged to cover the main body 11 from above. The planting panel 12 and the mounting portion 11c cover the entire upper side of the main body 11. Hereinafter, the space surrounded by the main body 11 and the planting panel 12 will be referred to as the "internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10." A nutrient solution F is stored in the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10. The liquid level of the nutrient solution F is lower than the lower surfaces of the mounting portion 11c and the planting panel 12. An air layer is formed between the liquid level and the lower surfaces of the mounting portion 11c, etc.

[0042] The planting panel 12 is made of an appropriate material. For example, the planting panel 12 may be made of common polystyrene foam or the like. As will be described later, the temperature of the nutrient solution F is regulated. For this reason, the planting panel 12 is desirably made of a resin or metal with a relatively high thermal conductivity. This allows the cold or heat of the temperature-regulated nutrient solution F to be transmitted to the surroundings of the plant P via the planting panel 12, making it easier for the plant P to grow at an appropriate temperature.

[0043] The plant cultivation panel 12 is configured to suppress light transmission. For example, the plant cultivation panel 12 is configured from a material that is colored in a color that easily absorbs light, similar to the attachment portion 11c.

[0044] The closing member 20 is for closing all of the holes 12a in the planting panel 12. The closing member 20 is formed in a shape that can close the holes 12a. In this embodiment, the closing member 20 is formed in a substantially cylindrical shape that corresponds to the inner diameter of the holes 12a. The closing member 20 is placed inside the holes 12a. The plants P are planted in the holes 12a of the planting panel 12 by inserting them through the closing member 20. At this time, the roots of the plants P are immersed in the culture solution F in the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10. Furthermore, a part of the plants P is exposed on the upper side of the planting panel 12. In this way, in the hydroponic cultivation device 1, the plants P planted in the planting panel 12 can be grown by hydroponic cultivation.

[0045] The blocking member 20 is configured to suppress the transmission of light. For example, the blocking member 20 is made of a material that is colored in a color that easily absorbs light, similar to the attachment portion 11c.

[0046] The cover portion 30 covers the plants P exposed on the upper side of the planting panel 12. For ease of explanation, the cover portion 30 is shown in FIG. 1 by a two-dot chain line. The cover portion 30 is made of, for example, a flexible sheet-like material. The cover portion 30 separates the space above the planting panel 12 (the external space of the cultivation bed 10) from other spaces. Hereinafter, the space separated by the cover portion 30 (the space surrounded by the planting panel 12 and the cover portion 30) will be referred to as the "cover space S2."

[0047] In this embodiment, the facility (such as a greenhouse) in which the hydroponic cultivation device 1 is installed is configured to allow sunlight to enter inside. The cover 30 is made of a light-transmitting material so that the sunlight can reach the plants P. For example, the cover 30 is made of a vinyl sheet, nonwoven fabric, or the like.

[0048] The configuration of the cover 30 is not limited to this embodiment. The cover 30 may be, for example, a non-flexible one. For example, the cover 30 may be a plastic panel or the like. Furthermore, if light (sunlight, etc.) is not irradiated onto the plant P from outside the cover 30, the cover 30 may be made of a material that does not transmit light.

[0049] The nutrient solution tank 40 is a tank that stores the nutrient solution F. A pump 41 that pumps the nutrient solution F is provided inside the nutrient solution tank 40. The pump 41 is connected to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 via a first duct 42. The nutrient solution tank 40 is also connected to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 via a second duct 43. The nutrient solution F stored in the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 can flow to the nutrient solution tank 40 via the second duct 43.

[0050] The nutrient solution tank 40 is configured so that light does not strike the culture solution F inside. For example, the nutrient solution tank 40 is configured so that light does not strike the culture solution F by being made of a material that does not transmit light, similar to the mounting portion 11c, or by being installed in a place where light does not strike.

[0051] The temperature adjustment unit 50 is a device that adjusts the temperature of the culture solution F. The temperature adjustment unit 50 is composed of, for example, a chiller and a heater. The temperature adjustment unit 50 is connected to the nutrient solution tank 40. The culture solution F is introduced into the temperature adjustment unit 50 from the nutrient solution tank 40. The temperature adjustment unit 50 heats or cools the culture solution F. The temperature-adjusted culture solution F is returned to the nutrient solution tank 40, allowing the temperature adjustment unit 50 to adjust the temperature of the culture solution F. The configuration of the temperature adjustment unit 50 is not limited to this embodiment and can be changed as appropriate depending on the purpose of temperature adjustment, etc. For example, if the purpose is only to heat the culture solution F (without cooling the culture solution F), it is possible to use only the heater of the chiller and heater as the temperature adjustment unit 50.

[0052] The connection part 60 is a part that connects the temperature-controlled space and the cover space S2 to each other so that air can circulate between the temperature-controlled space, the temperature of which is regulated by the nutrient solution F therein, and the cover space S2. The temperature-controlled space is a space where air that comes into contact with the temperature-regulated nutrient solution F exists. In the temperature-controlled space, the temperature of the air is regulated by the cold or heat of the nutrient solution F. In this embodiment, the temperature-controlled space includes the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10, the internal space of the nutrient solution tank 40, the internal space of the first duct 42, and the internal space of the second duct 43. The connection part 60 connects the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 to the cover space S2 of the temperature-controlled space. The connection part 60 is equipped with an air intake duct 61 and an exhaust duct 62.

[0053] The air supply duct 61 is for guiding air from the internal space S1 (temperature-controlled space) of the cultivation bed 10 to the cover space S2. The air supply duct 61 is formed in a cylindrical shape. One end of the air supply duct 61 is attached to an attachment portion 11c on the left side of the cultivation bed 10. The air supply duct 61 is connected to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 via the attachment portion 11c. This allows the air supply duct 61 to guide the air from the internal space S1 toward the other end of the air supply duct 61. The other end of the air supply duct 61 is formed with an opening 61a that can discharge the guided air to the cover space S2. The opening 61a is located in the cover space S2. The opening 61a is located to the left of the plant P (on the left and right outer sides of the cover space S2). The air supply duct 61 connects the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 to the cover space S2.

[0054] The air intake duct 61, like the attachment portion 11c, is configured to suppress light transmission. Furthermore, a cylindrical member such as the air intake duct 61 may allow light to pass through the interior (reaching the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 from the opening 61a along the shape of the air intake duct 61). For this reason, the air intake duct 61 is configured to suppress light from passing through. More specifically, if the air intake duct 61 is bent midway, light traveling through the air intake duct 61 will hit the bent portion, hindering the progression of the light. Therefore, the air intake duct 61 is formed to be bent appropriately midway.

[0055] In this embodiment, the midway portion of the air supply duct 61 is bent (folded back) so as to reverse the air flow direction. More specifically, the midway portion of the air supply duct 61 is folded back so as to reverse the air flow direction by combining multiple bent portions that are bent at approximately 90°. As an example of the air supply duct 61 (midway portion), FIG. 1 illustrates an air supply duct 61 having a first bent portion 61c that bends upward from a first portion 61b extending left and right, a second portion 61d that extends upward from the first bent portion 61c, and a second bent portion 61e that bends right from the second portion 61d. This allows the air supply duct 61 to guide the air in the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 to the left and then to the right.

[0056] This configuration effectively obstructs the progression of light, effectively preventing light from passing through the air intake duct 61. Furthermore, by combining two bent portions (first bent portion 61c and second bent portion 61e) and folding back the air intake duct 61, light passing through the air intake duct 61 is more likely to hit the inner surface of the air intake duct 61 at the two bent portions, making it possible to more effectively obstruct the progression of light.

[0057] The exhaust duct 62 is for guiding air from the cover space S2 to the internal space S1. The exhaust duct 62 is formed in a cylindrical shape. One end of the exhaust duct 62 is attached to the attachment portion 11c on the right side of the cultivation bed 10. The exhaust duct 62 is formed symmetrically with the air supply duct 61. Similar to the air supply duct 61, the exhaust duct 62 is formed with an opening 62a, a first portion 62b, a first bent portion 62c, a second portion 62d, and a second bent portion 62e. Similarly to the attachment portion 11c, the exhaust duct 62 is configured to suppress light transmission.

[0058] The fan 70 is for generating an air flow from the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 to the cover space S2 via the connection part 60. In this embodiment, the fan 70 is provided in the middle of the air intake duct 61. The arrangement of the fan 70 is not limited to this embodiment. For example, the fan 70 may be provided in the exhaust duct 62. The fan 70 may also be provided in both the air intake duct 61 and the exhaust duct 62. The fan 70 (relay fan) that generates an air flow from the air intake duct 61 to the exhaust duct 62 may also be provided in the cover space S2.

[0059] The operation of the hydroponic cultivation device 1 will be described below with reference to FIG. 2. In the hydroponic cultivation device 1, the nutrient solution F can be circulated by operating the pump 41. Specifically, by operating the pump 41, the nutrient solution F in the nutrient solution tank 40 is supplied to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 via the first duct 42. The nutrient solution F in the cultivation bed 10 is returned to the nutrient solution tank 40 via the second duct 43. In this way, the hydroponic cultivation device 1 can circulate the temperature-controlled nutrient solution F between the nutrient solution tank 40 and the cultivation bed 10. For example, heated nutrient solution F can be circulated during times when the temperature is low in winter (such as nighttime), and cooled nutrient solution F can be circulated during times when the temperature is high in summer (such as daytime). This allows the temperature of the nutrient solution F to be maintained at an appropriate temperature (a temperature suitable for the growth of the plant P).

[0060] Furthermore, since the cultivation bed 10 (main body 11) of this embodiment is made of a highly insulating material, the temperature of the culture solution F can be easily maintained.

[0061] The temperature of the air in the internal space S1 (temperature-controlled space) of the cultivation bed 10 is regulated by the cold or heat of the culture solution F. For example, in winter, the air is heated by the culture solution F that has been heated.

[0062] In the hydroponic cultivation device 1, the temperature-adjusted air can be supplied to the cover space S2 by operating the fan 70. Specifically, by operating the fan 70, the temperature-adjusted air in the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 is supplied to the cover space S2 via the air supply duct 61. This generates a pressure difference between the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 and the cover space S2, so that air is sent from the cover space S2 to the internal space S1 via the exhaust duct 62.

[0063] In this way, air flows between the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 and the cover space S2, and the temperature around the plant P can be adjusted using air whose temperature has been adjusted by the nutrient solution F. For example, in winter, the temperature of the cover space S2 can be increased by supplying air heated by the nutrient solution F to the low-temperature cover space S2. This reduces the cost required for adjusting the temperature of the cover space S2.

[0064] Furthermore, operation of fan 70 can generate an air flow (wind) that flows from opening 61a of air supply duct 61 to opening 62a of exhaust duct 62. This can scatter pollen of plant P and facilitate contact between stamens and pistils, thereby promoting pollination.

[0065] As described above, in this embodiment, the facility is configured so that sunlight enters the facility, and the sunlight passes through the cover portion 30 and is applied to the plants P. This allows the plants P to perform photosynthesis.

[0066] In this embodiment, the mounting portion 11c, the planting panel 12, the blocking member 20, the air supply duct 61, and the air exhaust duct 62 are configured to suppress light transmission (see FIG. 1). This prevents sunlight from passing through the mounting portion 11c and the like and reaching the culture solution F.

[0067] Furthermore, the light that enters the air intake duct 61 through the opening 61a of the air intake duct 61 is blocked from traveling by the first bent portion 61c and the second bent portion 61e. This prevents the light that enters the air intake duct 61 from reaching the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 (from hitting the culture solution F). Similarly to the air intake duct 61, the exhaust duct 62 also prevents the light that enters the inside from reaching the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10.

[0068] In this way, the hydroponic cultivation device 1 blocks light from the cover space S2 toward the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10. This blocks light that causes the occurrence and growth of algae. This suppresses the occurrence of algae, which can prevent adverse effects on the growth of the plants P, and also reduces the effort required for cleaning.

[0069] As described above, the hydroponic cultivation device 1 according to this embodiment includes a cultivation bed 10 (cultivation member) in which an internal space S1 is formed in which a temperature-controlled nutrient solution F is stored, and in which a plant P is planted so that its roots are immersed in the nutrient solution F in the internal space S1 and a part of it is exposed to an external space (cover space S2); temperature control members (cultivation bed 10, nutrient solution tank 40, first duct 42, and second duct 43) in which a temperature-controlled space is formed whose temperature is controlled by the nutrient solution F contained therein; a connection part 60 connecting the temperature-controlled space and the external space of the cultivation bed 10 to each other so that air can circulate between the temperature-controlled space and the external space of the cultivation bed 10; a fan 70 that generates an air flow from the temperature-controlled space toward the external space of the cultivation bed 10 via the connection part 60, thereby controlling the temperature around the plant P; and a shading part configured to block light from the external space of the cultivation bed 10 toward the temperature-controlled space. In this embodiment, as an example of a light blocking portion, the mounting portion 11c, the planting panel 12, the blocking member 20, the air supply duct 61, and the exhaust duct 62 that suppress light transmission are described (see the parts indicated by thick lines in FIG. 1). Also, as an example of a light blocking portion, a configuration that suppresses light from passing through the inside of the air supply duct 61 and the exhaust duct 62 (first bends 61c and 62c and second bends 61e and 62e) is described.

[0070] This configuration prevents light from hitting the culture solution F and also allows the cold and heat of the culture solution F to be supplied to the space outside the cultivation bed 10. This makes it possible to suppress the growth of algae and reduce the cost required for temperature regulation.

[0071] The light-shielding portion includes a first light-shielding portion (the mounting portion 11c and the planting panel 12) configured to block light transmitted through the cultivation bed 10.

[0072] This configuration can prevent light from reaching the culture solution F stored in the cultivation bed 10, thereby preventing algae from growing in the internal space S1 of the cultivation member.

[0073] In addition, the cultivation bed 10 further includes a cover portion 30 that covers the portion of the plant P that is exposed to the external space of the cultivation bed 10, and the external space of the cultivation bed 10 is a space (cover space S2) surrounded by the cover portion 30 and the cultivation members.

[0074] By configuring it in this way, the external space of the cultivation bed 10 can be made relatively narrow, and therefore the amount of energy required for temperature regulation can be reduced.

[0075] The connection portion 60 includes an air intake duct 61 and an exhaust duct 62 (cylindrical portion) that connect the external space of the cultivation bed 10 and the temperature-controlled space (between the cover space S2 and the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10), and the shading portion includes a second shading portion configured to block light directed toward the temperature-controlled space through the air intake duct 61 and the exhaust duct 62. In this embodiment, as an example of the second light-blocking portion, a configuration that prevents light from passing through the inside of the air supply duct 61 and the exhaust duct 62 (first bends 61c and 62c and second bends 61e and 62e) is described.

[0076] With this configuration, it is possible to prevent light from reaching the culture solution F in the temperature-controlled space via the air supply duct 61 and the air exhaust duct 62.

[0077] The second light-shielding portion includes first bent portions 61c and 62c and second bent portions 61e and 62e (bent portions) formed in the air supply duct 61 and the air exhaust duct 62.

[0078] With this configuration, the first bent portions 61c and 62c and the second bent portions 61e and 62e can block light from traveling through the air supply duct 61 and the air exhaust duct 62.

[0079] The second light-shielding portion is formed by folding back the air supply duct 61 and the exhaust duct 62 so that the air flow direction is reversed within the air supply duct 61 and the exhaust duct 62 (see FIG. 1).

[0080] With this configuration, the propagation of light through the air supply duct 61 and the air exhaust duct 62 can be effectively prevented.

[0081] The cultivation member according to this embodiment is one embodiment of the cultivation bed 10 according to the present invention. The cultivation bed 10, the nutrient solution tank 40, the first duct 42, and the second duct 43 according to this embodiment are an embodiment of a temperature control member. The attachment portion 11c, the planting panel 12, the blocking member 20, the air supply duct 61, and the air exhaust duct 62 according to this embodiment are one embodiment of the shading portion according to the present invention. The mounting portion 11c and the planting panel 12 according to this embodiment are one embodiment of a shading portion according to the present invention. The air supply duct 61 and the air exhaust duct 62 according to this embodiment are one embodiment of the cylindrical portion according to the present invention. The first bent portions 61c and 62c and the second bent portions 61e and 62e according to this embodiment are one embodiment of the light-shielding portion, the second light-shielding portion, and the bent portion according to the present invention.

[0082] Next, a hydroponic cultivation device 101 according to a second embodiment will be described.

[0083] The hydroponic cultivation device 101 of the second embodiment shown in Figure 3 differs from the hydroponic cultivation device 1 of the first embodiment (see Figure 1) in the configuration of the air supply duct 161. Therefore, in this embodiment, the members other than the air supply duct 161 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0084] 3 includes an extending portion 161f and an outlet 161g. The extending portion 161f extends rightward from the second bent portion 61e. The extending portion 161f is formed to extend from the left end to the right end of the cover space S2. The right end of the extending portion 161f is located to the right of the opening 62a of the exhaust duct 62 (on the left and right outer sides of the cover space S2).

[0085] Air outlet 161g is an opening for blowing out air in the middle of air supply duct 161. A plurality of air outlets 161g are formed in extending portion 161f along the left-right direction (the longitudinal direction of air supply duct 161).

[0086] The air supply duct 161 allows air (temperature-adjusted air) guided from the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 10 to be blown out from multiple locations in the cover space S2. This makes it possible to uniformize the temperature in the cover space S2, making it easier for the plants P to grow at an appropriate temperature. Furthermore, by blowing air uniformly onto the plants P from multiple air outlets 161g, pollen can be scattered and the stamens and pistils can come into contact with each other, thereby promoting pollination.

[0087] The configuration (arrangement, length, etc.) of the extending portion 161f is not particularly limited as long as it is formed so that multiple air outlets 161g can be arranged within the cover space S2. For example, in FIG. 3, the extending portion 161f is arranged at a position higher than the exhaust duct 62, but the height of the extending portion 161f is not limited to this and can be set to any height. Also, in FIG. 3, the extending portion 161f is formed to extend to the right of the opening 62a of the exhaust duct 62, but this is not limited to this and the extending portion 161f may extend to any location. For example, the extending portion 161f may extend to between the rightmost plant P and the opening 62a in the left-right direction.

[0088] As described above, the air supply duct 161 (cylindrical portion) is formed with a plurality of outlets 161g arranged along the longitudinal direction of the air supply duct 161, which blow out the air guided from the temperature-controlled space toward the external space (cover space S2) of the cultivation bed 10.

[0089] This configuration makes it easier to make the temperature of the space outside the cultivation bed 10 uniform. Also, pollination can be promoted.

[0090] The air supply duct 161 according to this embodiment is one embodiment of the cylindrical portion according to the present invention.

[0091] Next, a hydroponic cultivation device 201 according to a third embodiment will be described.

[0092] The hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 of the third embodiment shown in Fig. 4 differs from the hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 of the first embodiment (see Fig. 1) in the configurations of the cultivation bed 210, the air supply duct 261, and the exhaust duct 262. Therefore, in this embodiment, the components other than the cultivation bed 210, the air supply duct 261, and the exhaust duct 262 are denoted by the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and the description thereof will be omitted.

[0093] The air supply duct 261 is connected to the side wall portion 11b at the left end of the cultivation bed 210. The exhaust duct 262 is connected to the side wall portion 11b at the right end of the cultivation bed 210. In this manner, in this embodiment, the air supply duct 261 and the exhaust duct 262 are attached to the cultivation bed 210 via a surface (both left and right side surfaces in this embodiment) different from the top surface of the cultivation bed 210. Therefore, unlike the first embodiment (see FIG. 1), the cultivation bed 210 of this embodiment is not provided with an attachment portion 11c.

[0094] At both left and right ends of the cultivation bed 210, through-holes (not shown) are formed penetrating the side wall portions 11b at positions higher than the liquid level of the culture solution F. The air supply duct 261 and the exhaust duct 262 are communicated with the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 210 through the through-holes. In addition, the cultivation bed 210 is provided with an overflow pipe 213.

[0095] The overflow pipe 213 is used to adjust the liquid level of the culture solution F. The overflow pipe 213 is arranged with its longitudinal direction facing up and down, and its upper end is located in the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 210. The upper end of the overflow pipe 213 is located at a position lower than the through-hole that penetrates the side wall portion 11b. The overflow pipe 213 is connected to the nutrient solution tank 40 via a third duct 44.

[0096] When the liquid level of the culture solution F stored in the cultivation bed 210 becomes higher than the overflow pipe 213, the culture solution F is discharged from the cultivation bed 10 to the nutrient solution tank 40 through the overflow pipe 213 and the third duct 44. In this way, the overflow pipe 213 can adjust the liquid level of the culture solution F so that the liquid level of the culture solution F does not rise to a position higher than the through-hole.

[0097] As described above, in this embodiment, the air supply duct 261 and the exhaust duct 262 are attached to a surface different from the upper surface of the cultivation bed 210, so that the upper side of the cultivation bed 210 can be effectively utilized. For example, more plants P can be planted on the upper side of the cultivation bed 210.

[0098] In this embodiment, the air supply duct 261 and the exhaust duct 262 are connected to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 210 via both the left and right side surfaces of the cultivation bed 210, but they may be connected to the internal space S1 via a surface other than the top surface and both the left and right side surfaces. For example, the air supply duct 261 and the exhaust duct 262 may be connected to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 210 via both the front and rear side surfaces.

[0099] Although the cultivation bed 210 is provided with the overflow pipe 213, the configuration of the cultivation bed 210 is not limited to this embodiment and can be modified as appropriate. For example, the cultivation bed 210 may be configured to adjust the water level of the culture solution F using a configuration different from the overflow pipe 213.

[0100] As described above, the temperature-controlled space includes the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 210, and the air supply duct 261 and the exhaust duct 262 (cylindrical portion) are connected to the internal space S1 of the cultivation bed 210 via a surface (both the left and right side surfaces in this embodiment) different from the top surface of the cultivation bed 210.

[0101] By configuring it in this way, the upper surface of the cultivation bed 10 can be effectively utilized.

[0102] The air supply duct 261 and the air exhaust duct 262 according to this embodiment are one embodiment of the cylindrical portion according to the present invention.

[0103] Next, a hydroponic cultivation device 301 according to a fourth embodiment will be described.

[0104] A hydroponic cultivation apparatus 301 of the fourth embodiment shown in Fig. 5 differs from the hydroponic cultivation apparatus 1 of the first embodiment (see Fig. 1) in that carbon dioxide can be supplied to the cover space S2. Therefore, in this embodiment, only the members that supply carbon dioxide will be described, and the other members will be assigned the same reference numerals as in the first embodiment, and their description will be omitted.

[0105] The hydroponic cultivation device 301 includes, in addition to the cultivation bed 10, a carbon dioxide cylinder 380 and a control unit 390. The carbon dioxide cylinder 380 is a container for storing carbon dioxide. The carbon dioxide cylinder 380 is disposed outside the cover space S2. A supply duct 381 is connected to the carbon dioxide cylinder 380. The supply duct 381 is for supplying carbon dioxide from the carbon dioxide cylinder 380 to the cover space S2. One end of the supply duct 381 is disposed within the cover space S2. An opening 381a for discharging carbon dioxide is formed at the one end.

[0106] The control unit 390 controls whether or not carbon dioxide is supplied via the supply duct 381. The control unit 390 includes a calculation unit and a storage unit. The control unit 390 is appropriately connected to a device that can switch whether or not carbon dioxide is supplied. For example, the control unit 390 is connected to a valve that switches whether or not carbon dioxide flows through the supply duct 381. By controlling the valve, the control unit 390 can switch between a state in which carbon dioxide is supplied to the covered space S2 via the supply duct 381 and a state in which the supply of carbon dioxide is stopped.

[0107] Furthermore, the control unit 390 of this embodiment is connected to the fan 70 and can control the fan 70. More specifically, the control unit 390 can switch between a state in which the fan 70 is operating and a state in which the fan 70 is stopped.

[0108] The control unit 390 can control whether or not to supply carbon dioxide depending on the season and time period, and can control the fan 70. Fig. 6 shows an example of control by the control unit 390.

[0109] As shown in Fig. 6, the control unit 390 operates the fan 70 and stops the supply of carbon dioxide during the nighttime hours in winter (when the temperature is relatively low and there is no sunlight). During the nighttime hours in winter, the temperature is relatively low, so heated culture solution F (for example, culture solution F at 20°C to 30°C) circulates between the cultivation bed 10 and the nutrient solution tank 40. Therefore, by operating the fan 70 during the nighttime hours in winter, the cover space S2 can be heated using air heated by the culture solution F. Furthermore, the supply of carbon dioxide during the nighttime hours when the plants P are not photosynthesizing (respiration) can be suppressed.

[0110] The control unit 390 also supplies carbon dioxide to the cover space S2 during daytime hours in winter (hours when the temperature is relatively high and the sun is shining). This allows carbon dioxide to be supplied during the hours when the plants P are photosynthesizing, thereby promoting photosynthesis. Even in winter, the temperature is relatively high during daytime hours, so it is likely that the temperature in the cover space S2 will be appropriate even without heating the cover space S2. Therefore, the control unit 390 stops the operation of the fan 70 during daytime hours in winter. This prevents adverse effects on the growth of the plants P and improves energy efficiency.

[0111] The control unit 390 also stops the supply of carbon dioxide during the nighttime hours in summer. Even in summer, the temperature is relatively low during the nighttime hours, so it is considered that the temperature of the cover space S2 is often appropriate even without cooling the cover space S2. Therefore, the control unit 390 stops the operation of the fan 70 during the nighttime hours in summer. This prevents adverse effects on the growth of the plant P and improves energy efficiency.

[0112] The control unit 390 also supplies carbon dioxide to the cover space S2 during the daytime in summer. During the daytime in summer, the temperature is relatively high, so cooled culture solution F (for example, culture solution F at 10°C to 25°C) circulates between the cultivation bed 10 and the nutrient solution tank 40. Therefore, by operating the fan 70 during the daytime in summer, the cover space S2 can be cooled using the air cooled by the culture solution F.

[0113] It is anticipated that the temperature of the cover space S2 may become extremely high during the daytime in summer when the weather is clear. For this reason, when the temperature is extremely high (above a predetermined threshold), it is desirable to open the cover section 30. Furthermore, when the cover section 30 is opened, the carbon dioxide outside the cover section 30 can promote photosynthesis of the plants P, so it is desirable to stop the supply of carbon dioxide.

[0114] Furthermore, in an intermediate period different from winter and summer, the control unit 390 controls whether or not to supply carbon dioxide and controls the fan 70 according to the minimum temperature of the day.

[0115] Specifically, when the minimum air temperature during the intermediate season is lower than a temperature suitable for the growth of the plant P, the control unit 390 controls the supply or non-supply of carbon dioxide and the fan 70 in accordance with winter operation. In this case, the control unit 390 operates the fan 70 and stops the supply of carbon dioxide during the nighttime hours, and stops the fan 70 and supplies carbon dioxide to the cover space S2 during the daytime hours. This makes it possible to warm the cover space S2 using air heated by the culture solution F when the minimum air temperature is low during the intermediate season.

[0116] Furthermore, when the minimum temperature during the intermediate season does not fall below the temperature, the control unit 390 controls the supply of carbon dioxide and the fan 70 in accordance with summer operation. In this case, the control unit 390 stops the supply of carbon dioxide and the fan 70 during the nighttime hours, and operates the fan 70 and supplies carbon dioxide to the cover space S2 during the daytime hours. This makes it possible to cool the cover space S2 using air cooled by the culture solution F when the minimum temperature is high during the intermediate season.

[0117] In this embodiment, carbon dioxide is supplied to the covered space S2 using the carbon dioxide cylinder 380, but the method of supplying carbon dioxide is not particularly limited. For example, carbon dioxide can be supplied to the covered space S2 by temporarily opening the cover part 30 and introducing outdoor air or air from inside the facility into the covered space S2.

[0118] As described above, the hydroponic cultivation device 301 further includes a supply unit (carbon dioxide cylinder 380, supply duct 381) capable of supplying carbon dioxide gas to the external space (cover space S2) of the cultivation bed 10.

[0119] By configuring in this way, it is possible to prevent a shortage of carbon dioxide from adversely affecting the growth of the plants P.

[0120] The hydroponic cultivation device 301 further includes a control unit 390 that controls the fan 70 according to the season and time of day.

[0121] By configuring it in this way, the temperature of the space outside the cultivation bed 10 can be appropriately adjusted according to the season and time of day.

[0122] The carbon dioxide cylinder 380 and the supply duct 381 according to this embodiment are one embodiment of a supply unit according to the present invention.

[0123] Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above configuration, and various modifications are possible within the scope of the invention described in the claims.

[0124] For example, in each embodiment, the mounting portion 11c, the planting panel 12, the blocking member 20, the air supply duct 61, and the air exhaust duct 62 are configured to be opaque to light (see FIG. 1), but other members may be configured to be opaque to light. For example, since there is a possibility that light may strike the first duct 42 (especially in the vicinity of the cultivation bed 10), the first duct 42 may be configured to be opaque to light.

[0125] The shapes of air intake duct 61 and exhaust duct 62 are merely examples, and may be formed into shapes different from those in the respective embodiments. For example, while air intake duct 61 and exhaust duct 62 are folded back once at first bends 61c and 62c and second bends 61e and 62e in the above embodiments, they may be folded back two or more times by adding additional bends. This effectively prevents light from passing through air intake duct 61 and exhaust duct 62, thereby effectively suppressing the growth of algae.

[0126] Furthermore, the hydroponic cultivation devices 1, 101, 201, and 301 may have components not described in the embodiments or may omit some of the components described in the embodiments, as long as they are capable of preventing light from hitting the culture solution F and supplying air whose temperature has been adjusted by the culture solution F to the space outside the cultivation bed 10. For example, the cover unit 30 may be omitted.

[0127] Furthermore, for example, the hydroponic cultivation devices 1, 101, 201, and 301 may be configured so that the height positions of the openings 61a and 62a of the air supply duct 61 and the air exhaust duct 62 can be changed depending on the season. For example, since heated air is blown out from the openings 61a and 62a in winter, the height positions of the openings 61a and 62a may be changed so that they are located at a relatively low position in winter. This allows the heated air to move from the lower side to the upper side of the cover space S2, thereby allowing the cover space S2 to be heated uniformly.

[0128] Furthermore, for example, in summer, cooled air is blown out from the openings 61a and 62a, so the height positions of the openings 61a and 62a may be changed so that they are located at a relatively high position in summer (higher than in winter). This allows the cooled air to move from the top to the bottom of the cover space S2, thereby cooling the cover space S2 uniformly. [Explanation of symbols]

[0129] 1 Hydroponic cultivation equipment 10 grow beds 12 Planting Panel 60 Connection 70 fans F Culture solution P plant S1 interior space S2 Cover Space

Claims

1. a cultivation member having an internal space in which a temperature-controlled culture solution is stored, in which a plant is planted so that its roots are immersed in the culture solution in the internal space and a part of the plant is exposed to the external space; a temperature control member that forms a temperature-controlled space whose temperature is controlled by the culture solution therein; A connection part that connects the temperature control space and the external space of the cultivation member to each other so that air can circulate between the temperature control space and the external space of the cultivation member; a fan that generates an air flow from the temperature-controlled space to an external space of the cultivation member through the connection portion to adjust the temperature around the plant; A shading unit configured to block light from the external space of the cultivation member toward the temperature control space; Equipped with Hydroponic cultivation equipment.

2. The light-shielding portion has A first light blocking portion configured to block light passing through the cultivation member is included. The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 1.

3. Further, a cover part is provided to cover a part of the plant that is exposed to the outside space of the cultivation member, The external space of the cultivation member is A space surrounded by the cover portion and the cultivation member, The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 1.

4. Further provided is a supply unit capable of supplying carbon dioxide gas to the external space of the cultivation member. The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 3.

5. The connection portion has A cylindrical portion that communicates the external space of the cultivation member and the temperature-controlled space with each other is included, The light-shielding portion has a second light-blocking portion configured to block light directed toward the temperature control space through the cylindrical portion; The hydroponic cultivation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. The second light-shielding portion has A bent portion is formed in the cylindrical portion. The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 5.

7. The bent portion is The tubular portion is formed by folding back the tubular portion so that the air flow direction is reversed within the tubular portion. The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 6.

8. The temperature-controlled space includes: The cultivation member includes an internal space, The cylindrical portion is The cultivation member is connected to the internal space through a surface different from the upper surface of the cultivation member. The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 5.

9. The cylindrical portion has A plurality of outlets are formed along the longitudinal direction of the cylindrical portion, and the air guided from the temperature-controlled space is blown out toward the external space of the cultivation member. The hydroponic cultivation device according to claim 5.

10. Further, a control unit is provided to control the fan according to the season and the time of day. The hydroponic cultivation device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

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