Vertical Farming System

Abstract

The present invention provides an agricultural system comprising a framework structure for accommodating grow frames and a grow frame lifter, wherein the framework structure comprises vertical column profiles defining a plurality of columns in which the grow frames are stored stacked on top of each other in a vertical stack, the grow frame lifter configured to move in two orthogonal horizontal directions above the columns and comprising a vertically movable lift frame for releasable attachment to an upper section of the grow frame so that the grow frame can be removed from or added to the stack of grow frames, each of the grow frames comprising a root section and a produce section separated by a grow board, and a nozzle panel positioned on one side of each column in the row of columns, the root section and nozzle panel forming a root chamber into which water can be provided through the nozzles.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] FIELD OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a vertical farming system, a growth frame for use in a vertical farming system, and a method for obtaining a root chamber in a vertical farming system. [Background technology]

[0002] Background and Prior Art FIG. 1 discloses a prior art automated storage and retrieval system 1 having a framework structure 100, and FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 disclose three different prior art container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 that are suitable for operating on such a system 1.

[0003] The framework structure 100 comprises upright members 102 and a storage volume comprising storage columns 105 arranged in rows between the upright members 102. In these storage columns 105, storage containers 106, also known as bins, are stacked on top of each other to form stacks 107. The members 102 may typically be made of metal, for example, extruded aluminum profiles.

[0004] The framework structure 100 of the automated storage and retrieval system 1 comprises a horizontal grid-based rail system 108 (i.e., rail grid) disposed across the top of the framework structure 100, on which a plurality of container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 may be operated to raise storage containers 106 from, lower storage containers 106 into, and transport storage containers 106 up the storage columns 105. The rail system 108 comprises a first set of parallel rails 110 disposed across the top of the framework structure 100 to guide movement of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 in a first direction X, and a second set of parallel rails 111 disposed perpendicular to the first set of rails 110 to guide movement of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 in a second direction Y that is perpendicular to the first direction X. The containers 106 stored in the columns 105 are accessed by container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 through access openings 112 in the rail system 108. The container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can move laterally above the storage columns 105, i.e. in a plane parallel to the horizontal XY plane.

[0005] The upright members 102 of the framework structure 100 may be used to guide the storage containers during the raising and lowering of the containers from and into the columns 105. The stacks 107 of containers 106 are typically free-standing.

[0006] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 comprises a vehicle body 201a, 301a, 401a and first and second sets of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, 401c, respectively, which enable lateral movement of the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 in the X and Y directions, respectively. Two wheels in each set are fully visible in Figures 2, 3, and 4. The first set of wheels 201b, 301b, 401b is positioned to engage two adjacent rails of the first set of rails 110, and the second set of wheels 201c, 301c, 401c is positioned to engage two adjacent rails of the second set of rails 111. At least one of the sets of wheels 201b, 201c, 301b, 301c, 401b, 401c can be raised and lowered so that a first set of wheels 201b, 301b, 401b and / or a second set of wheels 201c, 301c, 401c can be engaged with the respective set of rails 110, 111 at any time.

[0007] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 also includes a lift device 404 (i.e., a container lift device) (see FIG. 4 ) for vertical transportation of storage containers 106, such as for raising storage containers 106 from storage columns 105 and lowering storage containers 106 into storage columns. The lift device 404 features a lift frame 404d including a container connector 404b and a guide pin 404c adapted to engage with a storage container 106. The lift frame 404d can be lowered from the vehicle 201, 301, 401 so that the position of the lift frame 404d relative to the vehicle 201, 301, 401 can be adjusted in a third direction Z orthogonal to the first direction Y and the second direction X. The lift device of the container handling vehicle 201 is located within the vehicle body 201a in FIG. 2 .

[0008] To raise or lower the lift frame 404d (and optionally the connected storage container 106), the lift frame 404d is suspended from a band drive assembly by lift bands 404a. In a band drive assembly, the lift bands are typically wound / unwound onto at least one rotating lift shaft or reel located within the container handling vehicle. Various designs of band drive assemblies are described, for example, in International Patent Application Publication Nos. WO 2015 / 193278, WO 2017 / 129384, and WO 2019 / 206438.

[0009] Conventionally, and for purposes of this application, Z=1 identifies the top layer available for storage containers below rails 110, 111, i.e., the layer immediately below rail system 108; Z=2 identifies the second layer below rail system 108; and Z=3 identifies the third layer. In the exemplary prior art disclosed in FIG. 1, Z=8 identifies the lowest bottom layer of storage containers. Similarly, X=1...n and Y=1...n identify the location of each storage column 105 in the horizontal plane. Thus, as an example, using the Cartesian coordinate system X, Y, Z shown in FIG. 1, the storage container identified as 106' in FIG. 1 can be said to occupy storage location X=17, Y=1, Z=6. Container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can be said to travel in layer Z=0, and each storage column 105 can be identified by its X and Y coordinates. Therefore, the storage containers shown in FIG. 1 that extend above the rail system 108 are also said to be located in tier Z=0.

[0010] The storage volume of the framework structure 100 is often referred to as a grid, and the possible storage locations within this grid are referred to as storage cells. Each storage column may be identified by a position in the X and Y directions, and each storage cell may be identified by a container number in the X, Y, and Z directions.

[0011] Each prior art container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 comprises a storage compartment or space for receiving and storing the storage containers 106 as they are transported across the rail system 108. The storage space may comprise a cavity disposed within the vehicle body 201 a, 401 a as shown in Figures 2 and 4 and as described, for example, in International Patent Application Publication Nos. WO 2015 / 193278 and WO 2019 / 206487, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0012] Figure 3 shows an alternative configuration of a container handling vehicle 301 having a cantilever structure. Such a vehicle is described in detail, for example, in Norwegian Patent No. 317366, the contents of which are also incorporated herein by reference.

[0013] 2 may have a footprint covering an area having dimensions in the X and Y directions approximately equal to the lateral extent of the storage column 105, as described, for example, in International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2015 / 193278, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference. As used herein, the term "lateral" may mean "horizontal."

[0014] Alternatively, the cavity container handling vehicle 401 may have a footprint larger than the lateral area defined by the storage columns 105 as shown in Figures 1 and 4, as disclosed, for example, in International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2014 / 090684 or International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2019 / 206487.

[0015] The lateral area defined by the storage columns is equal to the lateral area defined by the grid cells 122 of the rail system 108. The lateral area of ​​a grid cell includes the area of ​​the access opening 112 and half the width of the rails around the perimeter of the access opening.

[0016] The rail system 108 typically includes rails with grooves along which the vehicle wheels travel. Alternatively, the rails may include upwardly protruding elements, and the vehicle wheels may include flanges to prevent derailment. These grooves and upwardly protruding elements are collectively known as tracks. Each rail may include one track, or each rail 110, 111 may include two parallel tracks. In other rail systems 108, each rail in one direction (e.g., the X direction) may include one track, and each rail in the other perpendicular direction (e.g., the Y direction) may include two tracks. Each rail 110, 111 may include two track members fastened together, each providing one of a pair of tracks provided by each rail.

[0017] International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2018 / 146304, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference, illustrates a typical configuration of a rail system 108 with rails and parallel tracks in both the X and Y directions.

[0018] In the framework structure 100, the majority of the columns 105 are storage columns 105, i.e., columns 105 where storage containers 106 are stored in stacks 107. However, some columns 105 may have other purposes. In FIG. 1 , columns 119 and 120 are dedicated columns that may have other purposes and are used by container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 to drop off and / or pick up storage containers 106 so that the storage containers can be transported to an access station (not shown) where the storage containers 106 can be accessed from outside the framework structure 100 or transferred from or into the framework structure 100. Within the art, such locations are typically referred to as "ports," and the columns in which the ports are located may be referred to as "port columns" 119, 120. Transport to the access station may be in any direction, be it horizontal, inclined, and / or vertical. For example, storage containers 106 may be placed within the framework structure 100 in random or dedicated columns 105, then picked up by any container handling vehicle and transported to port columns 119, 120 for further transport to an access station. Transport from the port to the access station may require movement along a variety of different directions by means such as delivery vehicles, trolleys, or other transport lines. Note that the term "inclined" refers to transport of storage containers 106 with an overall transport orientation somewhere between horizontal and vertical.

[0019] In FIG. 1 , the first port column 119 may be, for example, a dedicated drop-off port column where container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can drop off storage containers 106 for transport to an access station or transfer station, and the second port column 120 may be a dedicated pickup port column where container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 can pick up storage containers 106 transported from an access station or transfer station.

[0020] An access station may typically be a picking station or stock station where product items are removed from or placed into storage containers 106. At a picking or stock station, the storage containers 106 are typically not removed from the automated storage and retrieval system 1, but rather, once accessed, are placed back into the framework structure 100. A port may also be used to transfer storage containers to another storage facility (e.g., to another framework structure or to another automated storage and retrieval system), to a transport vehicle (e.g., a train or truck), or to a manufacturing facility.

[0021] A conveyor system comprising multiple conveyors is typically employed to transport storage containers between the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations.

[0022] If the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations are located on different planes, the conveyor system may include a lift device having a vertical component for transporting the storage containers 106 vertically between the port columns 119, 120 and the access stations.

[0023] A conveyor system may be arranged to transport storage containers 106 between different framework structures, for example as described in International Patent Application Publication No. 2014 / 075937, the contents of which are incorporated herein by reference.

[0024] 1 is to be accessed, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 is commanded to retrieve the target storage container 106 from its location and transport it to the drop-off port column 119. This operation involves moving the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 to a position above the storage column 105 where the target storage container 106 is located, using the lift device 404 of the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 to retrieve the storage container 106 from the storage column 105, and transporting the storage container 106 to the drop-off port column 119. If the target storage container 106 is located deep within the stack 107, i.e., one or more other storage containers 106 are positioned above the target storage container 106, the operation also involves temporarily moving the upper-positioned storage container before lifting the target storage container 106 from the storage column 105. This step, sometimes referred to within the art as "digging," may be performed using the same container handling vehicle that is subsequently used to transport the subject storage container to the drop-off port column 119, or one or more other cooperating container handling vehicles. Alternatively, or in addition, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 may have container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 that are specifically dedicated to the task of temporarily removing storage containers 106 from storage columns 105. Once the subject storage container 106 has been removed from the storage column 105, the temporarily removed storage container 106 may be repositioned in the original storage column 105. However, the removed storage container 106 may alternatively be transferred to another storage column 105.

[0025] When a storage container 106 is to be stored in one of the columns 105, one of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 is commanded to pick up the storage container 106 from the pickup port column 120 and transport it to a position above the storage column 105 where it is to be stored. After any storage container 106 positioned at or above the target position in the stack 107 is removed, the container handling vehicle 201, 301, 401 positions the storage container 106 in the desired position. The removed storage container 106 may then be lowered back into the storage column 105 or transferred to another storage column 105.

[0026] To monitor and control the automated storage and retrieval system 1, for example, to monitor and control the location of each storage container 106 within the framework structure 100, the contents of each storage container 106, and the movements of the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 so that the desired storage container 106 can be delivered to the desired location at the desired time without the container handling vehicles 201, 301, 401 colliding with each other, the automated storage and retrieval system 1 includes a control system 500 that is typically computerized and typically includes a database for keeping track of the storage containers 106.

[0027] Vertical farming using cubic storage systems is known. One example of such a vertical farming system is described in EP 3326452, in which bins with plants / crops are arranged in a stack, and individual bins can be removed or inserted by a luggage handling device operating on rails above the storage grid. The prior art system also includes a lighting system with a controller and lighting devices located above each bin. The controller can control the spectrum of the emitted light. A similar prior art system with stacked bins is disclosed in EP 3282830.

[0028] International Patent Application Publication No. 2019 / 109006 discloses a vertical farming system with a growing frame featuring two growing boards for growing plants / crops. The root sides of the growing boards share a common root chamber. The growing frame is composite and includes, for example, an internal fluid system and external LED lighting.

[0029] With regard to vertical farming, a system having a stack 107 of bins 106 is technically challenging because the plants placed within each bin 106 require both light and water to survive. Furthermore, due to the compactness of the stack 107, any maintenance of equipment related to lighting and / or irrigation may prove difficult.

[0030] It is therefore an object of the present invention to provide a vertical farming system that allows easy access and care of plants / crops in individual growing frames, as well as simplified maintenance of equipment related to lighting and / or irrigation.

[0031] Yet another object is to provide a simple and cost-effective growing frame for plants / crops. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0032] [Patent Document 1] International Publication No. 2015 / 193278 Summary of the Invention [Means for solving the problem]

[0033] The invention is defined in the appended claims and below.

[0034] In a first aspect, the present invention provides an agricultural system comprising a framework structure for accommodating growing frames, and a growing frame lifter; the framework structure comprises vertical column profiles defining a plurality of columns in which the growth frames are stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack, each of the columns being defined by four of the column profiles; a grow frame lifter configured to move in two orthogonal horizontal directions above the column and comprising a vertically movable lift frame for releasable attachment to an upper section of the grow frame so that a grow frame may be removed from or added to the stack of grow frames; each of the growing frames comprising a root section and a produce section separated by a growing board; a nozzle panel is disposed on one side of each column of the row of columns, each nozzle panel featuring a plurality of nozzles facing the root sections of the stack of growth frames in the corresponding column; The root section of the stack of growth frames and the nozzle panel form a root chamber into which water can be supplied via the nozzles.

[0035] The farming system may also be called a vertical farming system.

[0036] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the grow board may be vertical. The grow board may be inclined up to 15 degrees relative to vertical.

[0037] Each nozzle panel can have a height substantially equal to the height of the vertical column profile. Each nozzle panel can have a height at least equal to the height of two grow frames stacked on top of each other, preferably at least three or at least four grow frames stacked on top of each other.

[0038] The width of each nozzle panel can be equal to or greater than the width of the root section of the growth frame. Each nozzle panel can close the side of the column in which it is located.

[0039] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each grow frame may include opposing vertical sides, portions of which extend onto opposing sides of the root section, which portions of the root section may alternatively be referred to as root portions.

[0040] In other words, the vertical side portions can be positioned to separate or define two opposing sides of the root section. The portions extending onto the two opposing sides of the root section can extend from the grow board to the corresponding nozzle panel and / or column profile on which the nozzle panel is disposed.

[0041] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each of the vertical sides features an edge that is adjacent to the corresponding column profile when positioned in a column defined by the corresponding column profile.

[0042] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each of the vertical sides of a first grow frame includes an upper edge positioned to support a lower edge of each of the vertical sides of a second grow frame stacked on top of the first grow frame.

[0043] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, at least one of the grow frames, or each grow frame, may include a horizontally extending frame portion positioned above the root section. The frame portion may be a substantially horizontal or transverse plate element. In other words, the frame portion may extend horizontally from the grow board toward the nozzle panel.

[0044] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, at least the upper grow frame of the stack of grow frames may include a horizontally extending frame portion, which may be positioned above the root section. The frame portion may be a substantially horizontal or transverse plate element. In other words, the frame portion may extend horizontally from the grow board toward the nozzle panel.

[0045] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the root section of each growing frame may be separated and / or defined by a horizontal frame portion positioned above the root section.

[0046] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the horizontally extending frame portion may be a cantilever extension of the grow board. The horizontally extending frame portion may extend from the grow board and above the root section. When the growth frame is arranged in a column, the horizontally extending frame portion may extend from the vertical grow board toward a nozzle panel arranged on one side of the column. The horizontally extending frame portion may be a horizontal plate element. The horizontally extending frame portion may extend a length substantially equal to the distance between the grow board of a growth frame arranged in a column and the nozzle plate on one side of the column.

[0047] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the root chamber may be divided into root chamber sections by horizontally extending frame sections. In this aspect, the upper portion of the root chamber is closed by a horizontal frame section regardless of the number of growth frames in the stack.

[0048] The nozzle panel can include at least one nozzle for each root chamber section. In other words, the root chamber sections can be separated by horizontally extending frame sections. In other words, the horizontally extending frame sections of the growth frames can be stacked in a column to divide the root chambers in the column into root chamber sections.

[0049] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the horizontally extending frame portions may be provided with drainage holes that allow excess water in the growth chamber sections to drain towards the bottom of the stack of growth frames, i.e., the bottom of the root chambers.

[0050] In other words, the drainage holes allow water in a grow chamber section to drain out into the grow chamber section below. In one embodiment of a storage system, the top grow frame may include a horizontally extending frame section that does not have drainage holes, while the grow frames stacked below the top grow frame include drainage holes.

[0051] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, at least the top grow frame in the stack of grow frames may comprise a horizontally extending frame portion.

[0052] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each of the nozzle panels may extend between two column profiles that define the corresponding column in which the nozzle panel is disposed. In other words, each of the nozzle panels may extend between two of the four column profiles that define the corresponding column in which the nozzle panel is disposed.

[0053] Each nozzle panel may be connected to two column profiles, with the nozzle panel disposed between the two column profiles, and the connections may be waterproof to prevent water from exiting between the edges of the nozzle panel and the column profiles.

[0054] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the nozzles are flush with the inner surface of the nozzle panel, i.e., flush with the surface of the nozzle panel that faces the growth chamber.

[0055] In one embodiment, the agricultural system may include lighting devices positioned to provide light to the produce section.

[0056] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, at least one lighting device may be positioned on a side of each column in a row of columns having nozzle panels, the side facing the corresponding nozzle panel and the at least one lighting device facing the produce section of the stack of growing frames in the corresponding column.

[0057] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, a lighting frame may be positioned on the side of each column in a row of columns having nozzle panels, the side facing the corresponding nozzle panel, and the lighting frame may feature at least one of the lighting devices facing the produce section of the stack of growing frames in the corresponding column.

[0058] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each of the lighting frames may extend between two column profiles that define a corresponding column in which the lighting frame is arranged. In other words, each of the lighting frames may extend between two of the four column profiles that define a corresponding column in which the lighting frame is arranged.

[0059] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the framework structure may include a rail system disposed above the columns, the rail system featuring a first set of parallel rails and a second set of parallel rails forming a rail grid, and the grow frame lifter includes a wheel assembly configured to move the grow frame lifter along either the first set of parallel rails or the second set of parallel rails, the wheel assembly including at least four wheels.

[0060] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each column profile may have a cross-section with a hollow central section and at least two corner sections, each corner section including two vertical grow frame guides for accommodating the corners of the grow frame.

[0061] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, each nozzle panel may have a width that allows the nozzle panel to be positioned between two central sections of adjacent column profiles.

[0062] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, a nozzle panel is disposed on one side of each column in a first row of columns and a second row of columns, the first and second rows of columns being parallel and separated by a third row of columns that does not house grow frames. Each column in the third row of columns can have lighting frames disposed on two opposite sides thereof, the lighting frames providing light to the produce sections of the grow frames stacked in the first and second rows of columns.

[0063] In one embodiment of the agricultural system, the grow board of each grow frame may include a plurality of holes or recesses for accommodating grow packs or net pots in which plants can be grown, the holes / recesses extending through the grow board between the root section and the produce section.

[0064] In one embodiment, the agricultural system may include an access station where the growing frames may be presented for control, processing, and / or harvesting of the produce. The access station may be positioned to allow access to the growing frames by a human or robotic operator.

[0065] In one embodiment, the agricultural system may include a column through which the growing frames may be transported to or from the access station. The column may be referred to as a port column.

[0066] In a second aspect, the present invention provides a grow frame for use in an agricultural system according to any embodiment of the first aspect. The grow frame includes a support frame and a grow board separating a root section and a produce section of the grow frame, the support frame having two vertical sides between which the grow board is attached, the vertical sides extending on either side of the root section and the produce section, the two vertical sides being arranged in respective vertical planes perpendicular to the vertical plane in which the grow board is arranged.

[0067] In one embodiment of the growth frame, portions of the vertical sides may extend on either side of the root section to provide vertical liquid barriers on either side of the root section.

[0068] In one embodiment of the grow frame, each of the vertical sides can include an upper edge and a lower edge configured such that the upper edge of a first grow frame can support the lower edge of a second grow frame stacked on top of the first grow frame.

[0069] The upper edges of the vertical sides or the upper edges of the support frame may be provided with connection recesses for releasable connection to the lift frame.

[0070] The vertical sides extending on either side of the root section of the first growth frame may extend vertically such that the upper edges of the vertical sides interact with the lower edges of the vertical sides extending on either side of the root section of a second growth frame stacked on top of the first growth frame.

[0071] In one embodiment of the growing frame, the portions of the vertical sides extending on either side of the produce section include openings that allow free passage of air through the produce section. The openings may make up more than 50%, 60%, or 70% of the sides defined by the vertical sides extending on either side of the produce section.

[0072] In one embodiment, the growth frame may include plate elements that extend horizontally above the root section. The plate elements may feature drainage holes.

[0073] The plate element may be an integral part of the support frame or growing board.

[0074] In one embodiment, the growth frame may be a rectangular or rectangular parallelepiped shape.

[0075] In one embodiment of the grow frame, the grow board may include a plurality of holes for accommodating grow packs or net pots that plants can be grown in. The holes extend through the grow board between the root section and the produce section.

[0076] In a third aspect, the present invention provides a framework structure for an agricultural system according to any embodiment of the first aspect, comprising: The framework structure includes vertical column profiles defining a plurality of columns in which the growth frames can be stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack, each of the columns being defined by four vertically extending column profiles, and a nozzle panel disposed on one side of each column in the row of columns, each of the nozzle panels including a plurality of nozzles facing the interior space of the corresponding column.

[0077] In one embodiment, the framework structure comprises a lighting frame disposed on a side of each column of a row of columns having nozzle panels, the side facing the corresponding nozzle panel, the lighting frame featuring at least one lighting device facing the interior space of the corresponding column.

[0078] In one embodiment, the framework structure may include a rail system disposed above the columns, the rail system featuring a first set of parallel rails and a second set of parallel rails forming a rail grid.

[0079] The framework structure according to the third aspect may comprise any of the features of the framework structure of the agricultural system according to the first aspect.

[0080] In a fourth aspect, the present invention provides a method of providing a root chamber in an agricultural system comprising a framework structure and a growth frame lifter, the method comprising: the framework structure comprises vertical column profiles defining a plurality of columns in which the growth frames are stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack, each of the columns being defined by four vertically extending column profiles; a grow frame lifter configured to move in two vertical horizontal directions above the column and comprising a vertically movable lift frame for releasable attachment to the top of the grow frame so that the grow frame can be removed from or added to the stack of grow frames; each of the growing frames comprising a root section and a produce section separated by a growing board; a nozzle panel is disposed on one side of each column of the row of columns, each nozzle panel featuring a plurality of nozzles facing the root sections of the stack of growth frames in the corresponding column; The method comprises: lowering the plurality of growth frames (one at a time) into the column using a growth frame lifter; obtaining a root chamber defined by the root section of the growth frame and the corresponding nozzle panel; Includes:

[0081] The method according to the fourth aspect may include any of the features of the embodiment of the agricultural system according to the first aspect, the growing frame according to the second aspect, or the framework structure according to the third aspect.

[0082] The term "produce" should be interpreted broadly to include any plant species or crop suitable for a hydroponic system using a growing medium, such as mushrooms, herbs, medicinal plants, ornamental and general crops / plants. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0083] Embodiments of the present invention will now be described in detail, by way of example only, with reference to the following drawings, in which:

[0084] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a framework structure of a prior art automated storage and retrieval system.

[0085] [Figure 2]FIG. 2 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a cavity disposed therein for carrying storage containers therein.

[0086] [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a perspective view of a prior art container handling vehicle having a cantilever for carrying storage containers underneath.

[0087] [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a perspective view from below of a prior art container handling vehicle having an internally disposed cavity for holding storage containers therein.

[0088] [Figure 5] 5-8 are side perspective views of an exemplary agricultural system according to the present invention. [Figure 6] 5-8 are side perspective views of an exemplary agricultural system according to the present invention. [Figure 7] 5-8 are side perspective views of an exemplary agricultural system according to the present invention. [Figure 8] 5-8 are side perspective views of an exemplary agricultural system according to the present invention.

[0089] [Figure 9] 9-11 are perspective views of exemplary growing frames for use in the agricultural system of FIGS. [Figure 10] 9-11 are perspective views of exemplary growing frames for use in the agricultural system of FIGS. [Figure 11] 9-11 are perspective views of exemplary growing frames for use in the agricultural system of FIGS.

[0090] [Figure 12] 12 to 15 are top perspective views of the agricultural system in FIGS. 5 to 8. FIG. [Figure 13]12 to 15 are top perspective views of the agricultural system in FIGS. 5 to 8. FIG. [Figure 14] 12 to 15 are top perspective views of the agricultural system in FIGS. 5 to 8. FIG. [Figure 15] 12 to 15 are top perspective views of the agricultural system in FIGS. 5 to 8. FIG.

[0091] [Figure 16] 16-19 are various views showing details of the farming system in FIGS. 5-8. [Figure 17] 16-19 are various views showing details of the farming system in FIGS. 5-8. [Figure 18] 16-19 are various views showing details of the farming system in FIGS. 5-8. [Figure 19] 16-19 are various views showing details of the farming system in FIGS. 5-8. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0092] Detailed Description of the Invention In the following, embodiments of the present invention will be discussed in more detail with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which it should be understood, however, that the drawings are not intended to limit the invention to the subject matter depicted therein.

[0093] The present invention is an automated agricultural system for cultivating biological species such as crops / plants. Exemplary embodiments of the agricultural system of the present invention and various features thereof are shown in Figures 5-19.

[0094] The agricultural system 2 includes a framework structure 100, a plurality of growing frames 3, and a growing frame lifter 20 (see FIGS. 5 to 8).

[0095] The framework structure 100 includes vertical column profiles 102 that define a plurality of columns 105 in which the grow frames 3 may be stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack. Each column is defined by four of the column profiles 102. A rail system 108 is disposed above the columns 105. The rail system forms a rail grid having a first set of parallel rails 110 and a second set of parallel rails 111 on which the grow frame lifter 20 may move in two horizontally orthogonal directions.

[0096] The grow frame lifter 20 has a vertically movable lift frame 22 for releasable attachment to the upper section of the grow frame 3 so that the grow frame 3 can be removed from or added to a stack of grow frames 3 (see FIG. 14 ). In the exemplary agricultural system 2, the grow frame lifter 20 is a vehicle with a wheel assembly configured to move the grow frame lifter along either a first set of parallel rails 110 and a second set of parallel rails 111. The wheel assembly includes two sets of wheels, each set of wheels having four wheels 21.

[0097] The wheel assembly of the exemplary grow frame lifter 20 is similar to the wheel assemblies of the prior art vehicles 201, 301, 401 described in the Background section. In other embodiments, the grow frame lifter 20 may alternatively be moved by any other suitable means, such as being part of a gantry-type lift positioned above the column 105. In embodiments in which the grow frame lifter 20 is moved without the use of wheels, the framework structure need not have a rail system 108 positioned on top of the column profile 102.

[0098] Details of an exemplary grow frame 3 are shown in Figures 9-11. The grow frame 3 is shaped like a rectangular parallelepiped and includes a support frame 15 and a grow board 6. The grow board 6 separates the root section 4 and the produce section 5 of the grow frame 3. The grow board features a plurality of holes 27 for accommodating grow packs or net pots 32 in which plants 28 can be grown (see Figure 7). Grow packs and net pots are known in the fields of hydroponics and vertical farming; see, for example, International Patent Application Publication No. WO 2019 / 109006. The support frame 15 includes two vertical sides 10 between which the grow board 6 is attached. The vertical sides are interconnected by a crossbar 26 and extend on either side of the root section 4 and the produce section 5. Each of the vertical sides 10 features an inner side with a track 29 into which the grow board 6 is inserted or secured. Alternative grow frames 3 may include multiple tracks 29 so that the distance between the grow board 6 and the lighting device 13 (see below) can be changed as needed. The vertical sides extend vertically so that when two grow frames 3 are stacked on top of each other, the upper edge 30 of the vertical side 10 interacts with the lower edge 31 of the vertical side of a second grow frame 3. The grow board 6 in the illustrated embodiment is vertical. However, in alternative embodiments, the grow board 6 may be slightly inclined, up to 15 degrees relative to vertical.

[0099] Portions 10a (also referred to as root portions) of vertical sides 10 extend on either side of root section 4, providing vertical liquid barriers on opposing sides of root section 4. Portions 10b (also referred to as produce portions) of vertical sides 10 extending on either side of produce section 5 have openings 17 that allow free passage of air through produce section 5 to provide ventilation. Each vertical side 10 features an edge 19 that abuts a corresponding column profile 102 when growing frame 3 is placed in column 105. Edge 19 is positioned close to the corresponding column profile 102, typically leaving a small gap 33 therebetween. In alternative embodiments, edge 19 may include, for example, a brush seal to close the gap as needed.

[0100] The growing board 6 further comprises a substantially horizontal plate element (i.e., a horizontally extending frame portion) 11 extending above the root section 4, the plate element 11 featuring drainage holes 12. In other embodiments, the horizontal plate element may be a separate element or may be part of the support frame 15.

[0101] To allow the grow frame 3 to be lifted by the grow frame lifter 20, the upper edge 30 of the support frame 15 includes a connection recess 16 to which a lift frame 22 can be releasably attached. The lift frame 22 is similar to the prior art lift frame 404d described in the Background section above, and the connection recess 16 can be releasably connectable to a corresponding connector 404b, as shown in FIG.

[0102] A nozzle panel 7 is positioned on one side of each column 105 in which growth frames are stacked. Each nozzle panel 7 features a plurality of nozzles 8, as well as pipes 18 for supplying water to the nozzles 8. The nozzles are positioned to face the root section 4 of the stack of growth frames 3 in the corresponding column. In this embodiment, the root section 4 of the stack of growth frames and the nozzle panel 7 form a root chamber 9 into which water can be provided via the nozzles 8. Portions 10a of vertical sides 10 extending on either side of the root section 4 of the stack of growth frames 3 provide vertical walls of the root chamber 9.

[0103] In the exemplary agricultural system, each column profile 102 has a cross-section including a hollow central section 23 and at least two corner sections 24 (see FIGS. 16-19 ), each corner section 24 including two vertical grow frame guides 25 for receiving the corners of a grow frame 3. In the illustrated embodiment, the grow frame guides 25 are in the form of a plate, web, or flange. Each nozzle panel 7 has a width that allows the nozzle panel 7 to be positioned between the two central sections 23 of adjacent column profiles 102 without interfering with the plane D of the adjacent grow frame guides 25, thereby allowing the nozzle panel 7 to be connected to the column profile without interfering with the grow frame 3 whose corners are received within the corner sections 24 including the adjacent grow frame guides 25. In the illustrated embodiment, the nozzles 8 are substantially flush with the inner surface of the nozzle panel 7, allowing the plate element 11 to approach the nozzle panel without being obstructed by the nozzles 8 during vertical movement into or out of the column. However, in alternative embodiments, nozzle 8 may extend beyond the plane of adjacent grow frame guide 25, i.e., within the rectangular cross-sectional area of ​​the column defined by the column profile. In such alternative embodiments, horizontal plate element 11 may, for example, include a recess configured to prevent nozzle 8 from interfering with vertical movement of grow frame 3 within column 105, optionally mated with a flange on the nozzle panel to close the recess when the grow frame is in the column, or horizontal plate element 11 may be made of a resilient material that allows for flexure as it passes over the nozzle.

[0104] In the exemplary agricultural system, each root chamber 9 is divided into root sections 9 by horizontal plate elements 11. In this embodiment, the upper level of the root chamber 9 is at least partially closed, regardless of the number of growth frames arranged in the stack. In other words, the plate elements 11 ensure that the root chamber 9 does not easily dehydrate when one or more growth frames are removed from the stack of growth frames. The plate elements 11 also ensure that water from the nozzles does not exit the top of the root chamber 9 when the stack is full, i.e., when the maximum number of growth frames 3 are stacked in the column 105. While advantageous, the plate elements 11 are not required to obtain a functional root chamber, and in other embodiments, the growth frame may be without such plate elements. Alternatively, only the upper growth frame may include horizontal plate elements 11 to close the upper level of the root chamber 9.

[0105] A plurality of lighting frames 14 are positioned on one side of each column 105 opposite the corresponding nozzle panel 7. Each lighting frame 14 is positioned between two adjacent column profiles 102 of the column 105 and features at least one lighting device 13 positioned to provide light to the produce section of the growing frames 6. In alternative embodiments of the farming system, the size of the lighting frames 14 and the number of lighting devices 13 may be configured such that only a single lighting frame can provide light to a complete stack of growing frames 3. While an advantage of the present invention is the simple structure of the growing frames 3, in alternative embodiments, each growing frame 3 may be equipped with a lighting device 13 that provides the necessary light for the corresponding produce section.

[0106] The lighting device 13 is configured to emit light at a predetermined wavelength or a predetermined wavelength range to optimize the cultivation of the crops in the growth frame 3, for example by optimizing photosynthesis in the plants. The predetermined wavelength range may be between 425 nm and 700 nm, for example within the wavelength range between 425 and 450 nm (blue range) and / or the wavelength range between 600 and 700 nm (red range). Examples of suitable lighting devices 13 are incandescent bulbs or LEDs.

[0107] To allow access to the growing frames 3 for care and processing, the agricultural system may feature port columns for transporting the growing frames out of the framework structure (i.e., port columns for transferring storage containers, as discussed in the Background section) and any suitable type of access station (not shown). Suitable access stations may include access stations similar to those described in the Background section. Further suitable access stations are disclosed, for example, in EP 3326452 and WO 2016166311. [Explanation of symbols]

[0108] List of Reference Numbers 1. Prior Art Automated Storage and Retrieval Systems 2. Agricultural Systems 3 Growth Frame 4. Root Section 5. Produce Section 6. Cultivation Board 7 Nozzle Panel 8 nozzles 9. Root Chamber 10 Vertical Side 11 Plate element, horizontally extending frame part 12 Drain hole 13 Lighting Devices 14 Lighting Frame 15 Support frame 16 Connection recess 17 Opening 18 Pipe 19 Edge 20 Growth frame lift, growth frame lift vehicle 21 Wheels 22 Lift frame, gripping device 23 hollow center section 24 Corner Section 25 Growth Frame Guide Plate 26 Crossbar 27 holes 28 plants 29 orbit 30 upper edge 31 Lower edge 32 Net Pot 33 Gap 100 Framework Structure 102 Upright members of framework structures 104 Storage Grid 105 Column, Storage Column 106 Storage Container 106' Specific location of storage container 107 stacks 108 Rail System 110 Parallel rails in the first direction (X) 112 Access opening 119 First Port Column 120 Second Port Column 201 Prior Art Container Handling Vehicles 201a Vehicle body of container handling vehicle 201 201b Drive means / wheel arrangement / first set of wheels in first direction (X) 201c Second direction (Y) drive means / wheel arrangement / second set of wheels 301 Prior Art Cantilever Container Handling Vehicle 301a Vehicle body of container handling vehicle 301 301b First set of drive means / wheels in first direction (X) 301c Second set of drive means / wheels in second direction (Y) 304 Grasping Device 401 Prior Art Container Handling Vehicles 401a Vehicle body of container handling vehicle 401 401b First set of drive means / wheels in first direction (X) 401c Second set of drive means / wheels in second direction (Y) 404 Grasping Device 404a Lift Band 404b Grip 404c guide pin 404d lift frame 500 Control System X first direction Y Second direction Z third direction

Claims

1. An agricultural system (2) comprising a framework structure (100) for accommodating growing frames (3) and a growing frame lifter (20), the framework structure (100) comprises vertical column profiles (102) defining a plurality of columns (105) in which the growth frames (3) are stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack, each of the columns being defined by four of the column profiles (102); the growth frame lifter is configured to move in two orthogonal horizontal directions above the column (105) and comprises a vertically movable lift frame (22) for releasable attachment to the upper section of a growth frame (3) so that a growth frame (3) can be removed from or added to a stack of growth frames; each of said growing frames comprising a root section (4) and a produce section (5) separated by a growing board (6); a nozzle panel (7) disposed on one side of each column (105) of the row of columns, each of said nozzle panels featuring a plurality of nozzles (8) facing the root sections (4) of the stack of growth frames in said corresponding column; The root section (4) of the stack of growth frames and the nozzle panel (7) form a root chamber (9) into which water can be provided via the nozzles (8). Agricultural system.

2. 2. The agricultural system of claim 1, wherein each growing frame comprises opposing vertical sides (10), portions (10a) of the sides extending onto opposing sides of the root section (4).

3. 3. The agricultural system of claim 2, wherein each of said vertical sides is characterized by an edge (19) adjacent to a corresponding column profile (102).

4. 4. The agricultural system of claim 2 or 3, wherein each of the vertical sides of a first growing frame (3) has an upper edge (30) arranged to support a lower edge (31) of each of the vertical sides of a second growing frame stacked on top of the first growing frame.

5. 10. The agricultural system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each growing frame (3) comprises a horizontally extending frame portion (11), said frame portion being capable of being positioned above said root section.

6. 6. Agricultural system according to claim 5, wherein the horizontally extending frame portion (11) is a cantilever extension of the growing board (6).

7. 7. A farming system according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the root chamber (9) is divided into root chamber sections (9') by the horizontally extending frame parts.

8. 8. The agricultural system of any one of claims 5 to 7, wherein the horizontally extending frame portions (11) are provided with drainage holes (12) that allow excess water in the growing chamber sections to drain towards the bottom of the stack of growing frames.

9. 10. The agricultural system according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein each of said nozzle panels (7) extends between two column profiles (102) defining the corresponding column in which said nozzle panel is arranged.

10. 10. A farming system according to any one of the preceding claims, comprising a lighting device (13) arranged to provide light to the produce section.

11. 11. The agricultural system of claim 10, wherein a lighting frame (14) is arranged on a side of each column in a row of columns having nozzle panels, said sides being on either side of said corresponding nozzle panel, said lighting frame characterized by at least one of said lighting devices (13) facing the produce section of said stack of growing frames in said corresponding storage column.

12. 10. The agricultural system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein the framework structure (100) comprises a rail system (108) disposed above the columns, the rail system characterized by a first set of parallel rails (110) and a second set of parallel rails (111) forming a rail grid, and the grow frame lifter (20) comprises a wheel assembly configured to move the grow frame lifter along either the first set of parallel rails (110) or the second set of parallel rails (111), the wheel assembly comprising at least four wheels (21).

13. 10. The agricultural system of any one of the preceding claims, wherein each column profile has a cross-section including a hollow central section (23) and at least two corner sections (24), each corner section (24) comprising two vertical grow frame guides (25) for accommodating corners of a grow frame (3).

14. 14. The agricultural system according to claim 13, wherein each nozzle panel (7) has a width that allows said nozzle panel to be placed between two central sections (23) of adjacent column profiles (102).

15. 15. A growing frame (3) for use in an agricultural system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising a support frame (15) and a growing board (6) separating a root section (4) and a produce section (5) of the growing frame, the support frame (15) comprising two vertical sides (10) between which the growing board is attached, the vertical sides extending on either side of the root section and the produce section.

16. 16. The growth frame of claim 15, wherein portions (10a) of the vertical sides (10) extending on either side of the root section (4) provide vertical liquid barriers on either side of the root section.

17. 17. A growing frame as claimed in claim 15 or 16, wherein portions (10b) of the vertical sides (10) extending on either side of the produce section are provided with openings (17) to allow free passage of air through the produce section (5).

18. 18. A growth frame according to any one of claims 15 to 17, comprising a plate element (11) extending above the root section, said plate element featuring drainage holes (12).

19. 19. A growth frame according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the vertical sides comprise upper edges (30) having connection recesses (16) for releasable connection to a lift frame.

20. A framework structure (100) for an agricultural system according to any one of claims 1 to 14, comprising: the framework structure (100) comprises vertical column profiles (102) defining a plurality of columns (105) in which the growth frames (3) can be stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack (107), each of the columns being defined by four vertically extending column profiles (102); A framework structure, wherein a nozzle panel (7) is arranged on one side of each column (105) of the row of columns, each of said nozzle panels having a plurality of nozzles (8) facing the interior space of said corresponding column.

21. A method for providing a root chamber in an agricultural system comprising a framework structure (100) for accommodating a growth frame and a growth frame lifter (20), comprising: the framework structure (100) comprises vertical column profiles (102) defining a plurality of columns (105) in which the growth frames (3) are stored stacked one on top of the other in a vertical stack, each of the columns being defined by four vertically extending column profiles (102); the growth frame lifter is configured to move in two orthogonal horizontal directions above the column (105) and comprises a vertically movable lift frame (22) for releasable attachment to the upper section of a growth frame (3) so that the growth frame can be removed from or added to a stack of growth frames; each of said growing frames comprising a root section (4) and a produce section (5) separated by a growing board (6); a nozzle panel (7) disposed on one side of each column (105) of the row of columns, each of said nozzle panels featuring a plurality of nozzles (8) facing the root sections (4) of the stack of growth frames in said corresponding column; The method comprises: lowering a plurality of growth frames (3) into the column by using the growth frame lifter; and obtaining a root chamber (9) defined by the root section of the growth frame and the corresponding nozzle panel.

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