Rotary germination system

Abstract

Commercially available seed germination devices have the disadvantage of being prone to mechanical failures and having high repair costs because they operate mechanically along multiple axes. [Solution] A rotary germination system comprising a chamber including an opening, a porous end cap that engages with the opening of the chamber, and a water tank, wherein the chamber and the porous end cap are at least partially submerged in the water tank, the inside of the chamber is in communication with the water tank via the porous end cap, and the porous end cap engages with a drive mechanism that rotates the chamber and the porous end cap while the chamber and the porous end cap are at least partially submerged in the water tank.

Description

Reference to Related Applications

[0001] This application claims priority to U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 324,399, "Rotary Germination System," filed on March 28, 2022, which is incorporated herein by reference for all purposes.

Background Art

[0002] Germination is the process of germinating a large amount of vegetable seeds and harvesting them as a food source. Germination at home has traditionally been carried out using a wide-mouthed glass bottle. Germination is relatively simple, but during growth, it is necessary to rinse the sprouts and water them two to three times a day. This very labor-intensive process is inconvenient, and if not done correctly, at least the growth of the crops will be poor, and in the worst case, the risk of fungi and bacteria will increase.

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Conventionally, commercially available germination devices include a large drum containing seeds and water, and by operating this drum, it is possible to promote the germination and growth of seeds. However, these commercially available germination devices have the disadvantage that they operate mechanically along multiple axes, so mechanical failures are likely to occur and the repair costs are high. Furthermore, commercially available germination devices are expensive to purchase, require a large space, and the fully germinated sprouts need to be packaged in plastic and shipped to retail stores by refrigerated trucks. During transportation, the sprouts may be damaged many times on the way. Also, the storage period of the sprouts is only a few days.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0004] Embodiments of the present invention are disclosed in the following drawings.

[0005] [Figure 1]A diagram showing one embodiment of a rotary germination system.

[0006] [Figure 2] A diagram showing a rotary germination system in operation.

[0007] [Figure 3] A diagram showing another example of a rotary germination system.

[0008] [Figure 4] A diagram showing the end cap and chamber.

[0009] [Figure 5] A diagram showing the end cap.

[0010] [Figure 6] A diagram showing the end cap.

[0011] [Figure 7] A diagram showing the end cap.

[0012] [Figure 8] An overhead view showing the base of a rotary germination system (without chambers or water tanks).

[0013] [Figure 9] A diagram showing the water tank of a rotary germination system.

[0014] [Figure 10] A diagram showing the water tank of a rotary germination system.

[0015] [Figure 11] A diagram showing a water tank connected to the base of a rotary germination system.

[0016] [Figure 12] Figures 12A and 12B illustrate the engagement between the end cap on the chamber of a rotary germination system and the drive mechanism.

[0017] [Figure 13] A diagram showing another example of a rotary germination system.

[0018] [Figure 14] A diagram showing yet another example of a rotary germination system.

[0019] [Figure 15] A flowchart showing a process for executing a seed profile. **DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION**

[0020] The present invention can be implemented as a process, an apparatus, a system, a composition, a computer program product in a computer-readable storage medium, and / or a processor (such as a processor that executes instructions stored in a memory connected to the processor and / or provided by the memory). In this specification, these embodiments, or other forms that the present invention can take, may be referred to as techniques. Generally, the order of the steps of the disclosed process may be changed within the scope of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, components such as processors and memories described as being configured to perform a role are general components that are temporarily configured to perform that role at a given time, or may be implemented as specific components manufactured to perform that role. As used herein, the term "processor" refers to one or more devices, circuits, and / or processing cores configured to process data such as computer program instructions.

[0021] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail below using the accompanying drawings that illustrate the principles of the present invention. The present invention is described in relation to embodiments, but is not limited to any embodiments. The scope of the present invention is limited solely by the claims, and the invention encompasses numerous alternative, modified, and equivalent embodiments. Numerous specific details are provided in the following description to ensure a complete understanding of the present invention. These details are illustrative, and the present invention may be implemented in accordance with the claims without some or all of these specific details. For clarity, technical matters known in the art related to the present invention are not described in detail to the extent that they do not obscure the present invention.

[0022] Embodiments of a rotary germination system are described herein. First, this rotary germination system includes an opening. In various embodiments, the shape of the chamber is cylindrical or frustoconical with one open end. Furthermore, this rotary germination system includes porous end caps configured to engage with the opening of the chamber. The seeds to be germinated are placed inside the chamber before the open end of the chamber is engaged with the porous end cap. Furthermore, this rotary germination system also includes a reservoir that can be filled with purified water (for example, manually or via a water pump). Furthermore, the source of this purified water may be a purified water storage facility that is part of a rotary germination system, or it may be a connection to the building's fresh water storage structure. The chamber, connected to a porous end cap, is at least partially submerged in the reservoir, so that the inside of the chamber is in communication with the reservoir via the porous end cap. In various embodiments, the “water tank” may be, but is not limited to, any basin, tub, dish or bowl in which the chamber can be partially submerged in water. The pores in the porous end caps that engage with the chamber are shaped and sized so that water from the reservoir can flow into and out of the chamber (for example, to moisten the seeds contained inside), but seeds and sprouts that grow from them cannot pass through. The porous end cap is configured to engage with a drive mechanism that rotates the chamber engaged with the porous end cap while the chamber and the porous end cap are at least partially submerged in the reservoir.

[0023] Figure 1 shows one embodiment of a rotary germination system. Furthermore, this rotary germination system 100 includes a removable chamber 102. Furthermore, the chamber 102 includes a single opening that can be covered with an end cap 116. As described below, this end cap 116 has holes through which water and air can pass. To begin the germination process, first, with the chamber 102 detached from the rotary germination system 100, the seeds are placed into the chamber 102 by the user through the opening. The opening is then covered by the user with an end cap 116, and the covered chamber 102 is then engaged by the user with the drive mechanism 112 of the rotary germination system 100. For example, the end cap 116 is made of stainless steel and / or plastic, at least in part. The type of seeds placed in chamber 102 can be detected in various ways by the rotary germination system 100. In the first example, the user can input the seed type via a user interface displayed by the electronic device 114, or via a user interface displayed in a relevant application running on the customer's device which is wirelessly connected to the rotary germination system 100. In the second example, the type of seed can be detected by a scanner of an electronic device 114 that scans a code or other identifier on the package in which the seed was enclosed. In the third example, the type of seed can be detected by the electronic device 114 based on an image obtained from the seed (for example, from a camera pointed into the chamber 102). Depending on the type of seed contained in the chamber 102, the electronic device 114 is configured to activate components within the rotary germination system 100 to modify the seed environment inside or around the chamber 102 and to promote seed germination and growth according to the seed profile corresponding to that seed type. In various embodiments, the electronic device 114 includes a memory configured to store one or more types of seed profiles. Each seed profile, when executed by the electronic device 114, contains computer code that controls the components of the rotary germination system 100 to perform a series of seed development stages. For example, each developmental stage includes the duration for which the drive mechanism operates in a specified manner (e.g., rotation in a predetermined direction at a specified rotational speed (RPM)) and / or the duration for which a set of target environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, humidity) within the chamber 102 are maintained during that stage.

[0024] While running a seed profile associated with the type of seed detected in chamber 102, the electronic equipment 114 is configured to release purified water from the purified water storage 110 to at least partially fill the water tank 104 in which chamber 102 is partially submerged. The electronic device 114 can activate the irrigation system and release purified water into the water storage tank 104. Furthermore, this irrigation system includes a pump 108 configured to pump purified water from the purified water storage facility 110 to the water storage tank 104. Figure 1 shows a cross-section of the water storage tank 104, in which the chamber 102 is partially submerged. The water storage tank 104 includes a tray with a convex body on which the chamber 102 is placed. When purified water is pumped up to the storage tank 104, at least some of the purified water becomes available to flow into the chamber 102 through the holes in the end cap 116 that cover the opening of the chamber 102. Furthermore, while the selected seed profile is being executed, the electronic device 114 is also configured to rotate the drive mechanism 112 via a motor (not shown in Figure 1). Furthermore, since the end cap 116 of the chamber 102 is engaged with the drive mechanism 112, the end cap 116 rotates due to the rotational movement of the drive mechanism 112. Furthermore, since the end cap 116 is connected to the opening of the chamber 102, when the end cap 116 rotates, the chamber 102 also rotates around its own axis, the axis 118. For example, the seed profile can specify, for each seed development stage, the type of operation that the drive mechanism 112 should perform (e.g., clockwise rotation, counterclockwise rotation, and / or both), the duration of such rotational operation, the speed of such rotational operation, whether to pump purified water into the reservoir 104, and / or to drain the water in the reservoir 104 and chamber 102 by activating the opening of the drain valve at the bottom of the reservoir 104. Instead of using a drain valve to drain water from the reservoir 104, the user can also manually drain water from the reservoir 104 by pouring it out.

[0025] In the first example, at least one seed development stage of the seed profile performed by the electronic device 114, water is introduced into the reservoir 104 via the pump 108, at least some of the water enters the chamber 102 to moisten the seeds, and the drive mechanism 112 is activated to rotate the chamber 102 around the axis 118, thereby agitating the seeds and ensuring they are more completely covered in water. In the second example, at least one seed development stage of the seed profile performed by the electronic device 114, the drain valve 106 is opened, and water from the reservoir 104 and chamber 102 is drained from the reservoir 104, removing moisture from the seeds. Since the chamber 102 is not parallel to the surface on which the rotary germination system 100 is installed, when the drain valve 106 is opened, the water that flows into the chamber 102 through the end cap 116 flows out to the drain valve 106 through the end cap 116 by gravity, accelerating the drainage of water from the chamber 102. In other words, the angle θ120 of the surface of the chamber 102 with respect to the plane of the rotary germination system 100 is not zero, but rather inclins the chamber 102 with respect to the surface on which the rotary germination system 100 is installed. For example, the angle θ120 of the surface of the chamber 102 with respect to the plane / surface of the rotary germination system 100 can be a non-zero value depending on the frustoconical shape of the chamber 102 (for example, the diameter at the opening / end cap 116 of the chamber 102 may be larger than the diameter at the closed end) or the angle of the reservoir 104 in which the chamber 102 is placed. The water discharged from the water storage tank 104 can flow into a used water storage area, sink, or drain via a tube (not shown in Figure 1). In the third example, at least one seed development stage of the seed profile performed by the electronic device 114, after water is drained from the reservoir 104, the drive mechanism 112 is activated to rotate the chamber 102 around the axis 118, stirring the sprouts that have germinated from the seeds and scattering them within the chamber 102, promoting airflow between the sprouts, accelerating their growth, and / or preventing fungal / bacterial growth due to trapped moisture. At the end of the seed profiling / growth process, the user can remove the end cap 116 from the drive mechanism 112 and harvest / remove the sprouts from the chamber 102, or place the chamber 102 containing the sprouts directly into the refrigerator.

[0026] The execution of all seed development stages within a seed profile may take several days (for example, 2 to 7 days). For example, before storing the sprouts in the chamber 102 inside the refrigerator, the porous end cap 116 can be replaced with a slightly breathable end cap to achieve ideal storage conditions inside the refrigerator.

[0027] The following is an example of how the rotary germination system 100 operates for various seed types, according to their respective seed profiles.

[0028] 1) Seed profile: Broccoli, salad mix

[0029] Soaking: Fill with water up to 25%, rotate slowly for 8 hours, then drain.

[0030] Rinsing: Rinse twice a day for 5 days, raising the water level to 20% each day, quickly rotating it back and forth for 3 minutes, then draining the water.

[0031] Holding: During rinsing, rotate very slowly for as long as possible.

[0032] Harvest day: Fill with the maximum amount of water, rotate quickly back and forth for 3 minutes, then drain.

[0033] 2) Seed profile: Lentil

[0034] Soaking: Fill with water up to 50%, rotate slowly for 8 hours, then drain.

[0035] Rinsing: Rinse twice a day for three days, raising the water level to 30% each day, quickly rotating it back and forth for 3 minutes, then draining the water.

[0036] Holding: Rotate very slowly and continuously during the rinse cycle.

[0037] Harvest day: Fill with the maximum amount of water, rotate quickly back and forth for 3 minutes, then drain.

[0038] The electronic device 114 includes one or more sensors and a climate control / subsystem. Examples of sensors may include humidity, temperature, water level, cameras, airflow, and accelerometers. For example, at least some of the sensors can be placed inside and / or outside the chamber 102. Depending on the measurements from the sensor, environmental subsystems such as fans, heaters, and (e.g., ultraviolet (UV)) light can be dynamically activated programmatically to adjust the environment inside or outside the chamber 102, making it possible to match the sensor measurements to the measurements of the target environment specified for various seed development stages of the performed seed profile. In the first example, the fan can be activated to blow air into the chamber 102, thereby lowering the internal temperature and humidity. In the second example, the corresponding UV light can be activated to disinfect seeds before germination or to stimulate sprout growth after germination. In the third example, if the humidity inside chamber 102 falls below the target value specified in the seed profile for the current seed development stage, the electronic equipment 114 can initiate the release of additional water into the water tank 104 and the rotation of chamber 102 within the water tank 104. If an accelerometer reading exceeding a predetermined threshold is detected, the electronic device 114 can send a warning (for example, to an application running on the customer's device) indicating that the rotary germination system 100 is sliding / moving in an undesirable manner during operation.

[0039] A current sensor connected to the drive mechanism 112 can be used to detect current deviations that indicate problems / failures / blockages in the drive mechanism 112 or the associated motor.

[0040] Although not shown in Figure 1, the rotary germination system 100 may include a disinfection module activated by an electronic device 114 to discharge a disinfectant solution into the chamber 102 to disinfect the seeds at the early seed development stage of the seed profile (for example, to wash the seeds before germination or after the completion of germination growth). For example, disinfected seeds are pumped up into a water tank 104 and then rinsed with purified water discharged from this water tank 104.

[0041] Although not shown in Figure 1, the rotary germination system 100 includes a user interface (UI) that allows the user to control the rotary germination system 100 and retrieve its status. The UI connects to an optional customer device application (such as a smartphone / tablet) via (e.g., Wi-Fi / Bluetooth / NFC / mobile phone), which allows messages (e.g., warnings) to be sent from the rotary germination system 100 to the smartphone / tablet. This smartphone / tablet application can also be used to remotely control the rotary germination system 100, update its firmware, and publish important information regarding the status of the rotary germination system 100. For example, the UI may include a dial or button that allows the user to initiate a process of automatically soaking, rinsing, and watering seeds or sprouts.

[0042] The UI of the rotary germination system 100 is configured to allow the user to input the type (and number) of seeds germinating in the chamber 102. The UI of the rotary germination system 100 is configured to allow the user to stop the growth cycle at any time. The UI of the rotary germination system 100 is configured to allow the user to determine the current status of the rotary germination system 100 (for example, the remaining time until the crop is ready, the water level, any errors, etc.). The UI of the Rotary Germination System 100 is designed to ensure a simple and convenient user experience. The UI of the rotary germination system 100 is configured to allow users to connect their mobile devices to the rotary germination system 100 to perform control, receive warnings, and configure settings.

[0043] The removable components of the rotary germination system 100, such as the chamber 102, end cap 116, water tank 104, and purified water storage unit 110, are modularly interchangeable with different instances of the same components. Furthermore, the removable components of the rotary germination system 100 are made of materials that can be machine-washed (e.g., glass, plastic, and / or stainless steel).

[0044] This rotary germination system 100 is a countertop-mountable product that allows germinated crops to grow with minimal user intervention during the growth process. Safety, convenience, and crop quality are the guiding principles for this rotary germination system 100. Users only need to add seeds and water once (at the start of the process), and do not need to intervene in the germinating crop until harvest.

[0045] The volume of chamber 102 may be between 0.5 gallons and 1 gallon. The chamber 102 is at least 3 to 10 gallons in size, capable of accommodating mature buds.

[0046] The dimensions of the Rotary Germination System 100 are 15 inches x 15 inches x 15 inches.

[0047] Figure 2 shows an example of a rotary germination system in operation. The rotary germination system 100 shown in Figure 1 can be implemented using the example of the rotary germination system 200 shown in Figure 2. Chamber 202 is partially filled with seeds before its opening is covered with the end cap 206. Next, the chamber 202 is engaged with the drive mechanism of the rotary germination system 200 via the end cap 206. The water storage tank 204 is connected to the base 214 and is held in place. In the example shown in Figure 2, water has already been placed in the reservoir 204, and the chamber 202 is partially submerged. As shown in Figure 2, the end cap 206 is porous, with radial slits that extend to the edge of the opening of the chamber 202. In other examples, the holes in the end cap 206 do not have to be slits, the slits do not have to be arranged radially, and / or the end cap 206 may also include a stirring rod extending into the chamber 202. Furthermore, because the end cap 206 is porous, the purified water pumped up by the pump 212 from the purified water storage facility (not shown) to the water tank 204 via the tube 210 flows into the chamber 202 through the holes in the end cap 206. As a result, as long as the drain valve at the bottom of the water tank 204 (which is closed in the diagram in Figure 2) is closed, water is retained in the chamber 202, providing moisture to the seeds contained inside. The motor 208, which is connected to the drive mechanism (connected to the end cap 206), is started by the (not shown) electronic equipment of the rotary germination system 200, and is capable of rotating the drive mechanism. The drive mechanism is connected to the end cap 206 (at the center of the cap 206), and when the motor 208 is started, the rotation of the drive mechanism is transmitted to the rotation of both the end cap 206 and the chamber 202 (by friction in the sealing portion between the opening of the chamber 202 and the end cap 206). Therefore, the chamber 202 rotates within the water tank 204 around its axis, first by the activated motor 208 and then by the drive mechanism. Alternatively, the drive mechanism (and the subsequent end cap 206 and chamber 202) may be manually rotatable, for example, by a crank, dial, or handle. As chamber 202 rotates, the mixture of seeds and water (see Figure 2) is adequately moistened, allowing for successful germination. The rotational motion of chamber 202 makes it possible to break down clumps of seeds that would not be completely covered in water without such motion. This effect can also be achieved by "fins" embedded in the inner wall of chamber 202 or by other such features (not shown in Figure 2). Depending on the various seed development stages of the seed profile (corresponding to the type of seed detected in the chamber 202) currently being performed by the electronics of the rotary germination system 200, the drain valve at the bottom of the reservoir 204 is activated and opened, allowing water to be drained from the reservoir 204 and the chamber 202. Furthermore, this chamber 202 is tilted at a non-zero angle with respect to the surface on which the rotary germination system 200 is set. Therefore, when the drain valve is activated and opens, water is discharged by gravity from the chamber 202 through the hole in the end cap 206 and moves downward through the drain valve (for example, to a used water collection / storage unit, or directly to the sink / drain). Furthermore, regardless of whether the drain valve is open or closed, and regardless of whether there is water remaining in the water tank 204, the motor 208 can be operated to rotate the chamber 202 inside the water tank 204. For example, after opening the drain valve and draining water from the water tank 204, the seeds in the chamber 202 will germinate and sprout after a while. During this seed development stage, the motor 208 can be activated to rotate the chamber 202 in one or more directions, spreading the buds inside and preventing the formation of clumps that would hinder healthy growth.

[0048] Figure 3 shows another example of a rotary germination system. The rotary germination system 100 shown in Figure 1 can be implemented using the rotary germination system 300 shown in Figure 3. The rotary germination system 300 is similar to the rotary germination system 200 in Figure 2, but the rotary germination system 300 in Figure 3 is shown from a different angle than the rotary germination system 200 in Figure 2. The chamber 302, located inside the water storage tank 304, is shown without seeds or water inside. The end cap 306, which is connected to the opening of the chamber 302, includes a stirring rod that extends into the chamber 302. The stirring rod in chamber 302 helps to break up the clumps of seeds and / or sprouts that have grown in chamber 302, so that the seeds are properly covered with water and the airflow around the sprouts is improved.

[0049] Figure 4 shows an example of an end cap and chamber. The chamber 102 and end cap 116 of the rotary germination system 100 in Figure 1 can be implemented using the example of the chamber 402 and end cap 406 in Figure 4. In the example shown in Figure 4, the chamber 402 is made of a transparent or translucent material such as glass or plastic. Furthermore, although the shape of this chamber 402 is shown as a frustoconical shape, in other examples, the chamber 402 may be cylindrical. The outside of the opening of chamber 402 is covered with gasket 404. For example, gasket 404 is made of silicon or other compressible material. The end cap 406 is configured to engage with the chamber 402 by at least partially covering the gasket 404. The gasket 404 forms a sealing structure between the end cap 406 and the chamber 402, so that the end cap 406 remains attached to the chamber 402, and the rotational motion of the end cap 406 is transmitted to the chamber 402. In other words, when the end cap 406 engages with the chamber 402, the drive mechanism of the rotary germination system actively rotates the end cap 406, and the chamber 402 rotates in the same manner. Furthermore, this end cap 406 has a peg 408 in the center. Since the center of the end cap 406 coincides with the central axis of the chamber 402, when the end cap 406 engages with the drive mechanism (when the peg 408 slides and engages with the slot of the drive mechanism), the rotation of the drive mechanism causes the end cap 406 and the chamber 402 to rotate around the axis of the chamber 402. In the example shown in Figure 4, the end cap 406 includes a slit 412 that extends radially from the center of the end cap 406. In the rotary germination system, the slit 412 extends to the edge of the opening of the chamber 402 so that when water is discharged from the reservoir in which the chamber 402 is installed, the water flows out from inside the chamber 402 (and does not remain inside the chamber 402). The holes in the end cap 406 are shown as slits 412 extending radially from the center of the end cap 406, but in other examples, the holes in the end cap 406 may be of any shape and arrangement that allows only water to pass through and prevents seeds from passing through. The end cap 406 also includes six stirring rods 410 that extend into the chamber 402, which also rotate together with the end cap 406 to mix, stir, and separate the seeds and sprouts in the chamber 402.

[0050] Figure 5 shows an example of an end cap. The example of the end cap shown in Figure 5 is the same as the end cap 406 in Figure 4, but the chamber that covered part of the stirring rod has been omitted.

[0051] Figure 6 shows an example of an end cap. The example of the end cap shown in Figure 6 is a different figure from the end cap 406 in Figure 4, but it lacks the chamber that covered part of the stirring rod. All stirring rods are made from the same molding material (e.g., plastic). Therefore, the stirring rod can be added to the end cap as a separate component, or removed from the end cap.

[0052] Figure 7 shows an example of an end cap. The example of the end cap shown in Figure 7 is an enlarged view of the end cap 406 in Figure 4.

[0053] Figure 8 shows an overhead view of the base of a rotary germination system (without chambers or water tanks). In particular, the base 214 of the rotary germination system 200 in Figure 2 can be implemented using the example of the base 800 in Figure 8. As shown in Figure 8, the base 800 includes a feature portion which fits with a corresponding feature portion of a water tank (not shown in Figure 8). Specifically, the feature portion of the base 800 that fits with the corresponding feature portion of the water tank includes recesses 806a and 806b and a raised stand 808. As shown in Figure 8, each of the recesses 806a, 806b, and 808 includes a recessed area into which complementary feature portions of the bottom of the water tank are inserted. This aligns the water storage tank with the base 800. Furthermore, the base 800 includes a drain valve 802, which can be activated and opened to discharge water from a drain hole in the water tank that is aligned with the drain valve 802. Furthermore, the base 800 also includes the drive mechanism slot 804. Then, when the end extending from the end cap of the chamber is inserted into slot 804, the rotation of the drive mechanism is transmitted to the end cap and ultimately to the chamber to which the end cap is attached (for example, containing seeds and water). Slot 804 may be a circular slot with access from top to bottom (as shown in the figure), or it may be a closed circular slot accessible from the front (not shown). In both cases, the end cap can be inserted and confined within it, and the rotation of the drive mechanism can be transmitted to the combination of the end cap and the chamber.

[0054] Figure 9 shows the water reservoir of a rotary germination system. In particular, the water tank 204 of the rotary germination system 200 in Figure 2 can be implemented using the example water tank in Figure 9. Figure 9 is a side view of the water storage tank. The bottom of this reservoir includes a feature that fits with a corresponding feature on the base of the rotary germination system. For example, feature portions 902a and 902b fit into recesses 806a and 806b in the base shown in Figure 8. Furthermore, the feature portion 904 is fitted and inserted into the raised stand 808 on the base shown in Figure 8. As described above, by aligning the characteristic part at the bottom of the reservoir with the corresponding characteristic part on the base of the rotary germination system, the reservoir can be securely connected to the base, thereby ensuring that water and the chamber are reliably contained within the reservoir. Furthermore, when this reservoir is fitted into the base of the rotary germination system, it is designed so that the reservoir is tilted relative to the surface on which the rotary germination system is installed. The slope causes the water in the reservoir to accumulate / flow towards the side where the drain is located, making it easier to drain the water from the reservoir (when the drain valve is open). The water tank 204 may be mounted in a sliding drawer that is pulled out from the front of the rotary germination system. Furthermore, the water storage tank 204 may include several components that can be removed each time it is cleaned. If a sliding drawer mechanism is used, the end cap can be engaged with the drive mechanism by inserting the projection (such as a peg) of the end cap into the closed circle / slot of the drive mechanism (such as slot 804 in Figure 8).

[0055] Figure 10 shows the water reservoir of a rotary germination system. In particular, the water tank 204 of the rotary germination system 200 in Figure 2 can be implemented using the example water tank in Figure 10. Figure 10 shows a diagram of the bottom of the water storage tank. In addition to showing the corresponding feature on the base of the rotary germination system shown in Figure 9, Figure 10 also shows a drain hole 1004 through which water can be drained from the reservoir and into a corresponding tube leading to a used water storage area or sink / drain.

[0056] Figure 11 shows a water tank connected to the base of a rotary germination system. Figure 11 shows an overhead view of the reservoir (without the chamber located inside the reservoir) after the outer feature of the bottom of the reservoir has been fitted with the corresponding feature of the base below it. Once the reservoir is properly secured and aligned to the base below, a chamber covered with a corresponding end cap can be placed inside the reservoir, and the protruding pegs of the end cap are inserted into or otherwise engaged with the drive mechanism 1102 of the rotary germination system.

[0057] Figures 12A and 12B show an example of engagement between the end cap on the chamber of a rotary germination system and the drive mechanism. In Figure 12A, a peg 1202, located in the center of a porous end cap fixed to a chamber containing seeds, is about to be inserted into a female receptor 1204 of a motor-driven drive mechanism. Furthermore, the female receiver 1204 has a cavity that matches the shape and dimensions of the peg 1202, and the peg 1202 can slide into the cavity and engage with the drive mechanism. In the examples in Figures 12A and 12B, the peg 1202 extending from the center of the end cap is shown to be rectangular, but in actual embodiments, the peg 1202 may be of any shape, and the female receiver 1204 of the drive mechanism may be any cavity of a corresponding shape into which the peg 1202 can be inserted. Figure 12B shows that the peg 1202 located in the center of the porous end cap is already inserted into the female receiver 1204 of the motor-driven drive mechanism. Since the end cap peg 1202 is square and the female receptor 1204 has a corresponding shape, when the peg 1202 is inserted into the female receptor 1204, the peg 1202 does not move relative to the female receptor 1204, but rather moves together with the drive mechanism, transmitting rotation to the chamber. Before running the seed profile, an electronic device that commands the motor operating the drive mechanism verifies that the opening of the female receptor 1204 of the drive mechanism is oriented in a direction that allows the peg 1202 to be inserted through the opening of the female receptor 1204 (for example, upward or perpendicular to the surface on which the rotary germination system is installed). Instead of inserting peg 1202 into an open slot of the drive mechanism, peg 1202 can be inserted into a closed circle of the drive mechanism and engaged with the drive mechanism.

[0058] Figure 13 shows another example of a rotary germination system. In the example shown in Figure 13, the system base, including a motor, pump, tubing, used water storage / collection tank, and electronics (memory, processor, sensors, disinfection module, environmental subsystem, etc.), similar to the configuration described above for the rotary germination system 100 in Figure 1, is housed within the housing 1302. The rotary germination system 1300 includes a reservoir 1304 into which a chamber (partially filled with seeds) (not shown in Figure 13) is inserted. Purified water can be pumped into the water storage tank 1304 via a tube connecting the water storage tank 1304 and the water storage facility 1310. For example, the water storage unit 1310 includes a refillable water container that is inserted into a corresponding cavity in the housing 1302. For example, the shape of the chamber may be cylindrical or frustoconical with a single opening. The user can place seeds into the chamber through the opening and then cover the opening with an end cap (not shown in Figure 13, but the end cap may be similar to, for example, the examples described in Figures 4 to 7). The end cap may also include a circular / cylindrical peg extending from the center of the end cap, which can be inserted into (engaged in) a slot 1306, which is part of the drive mechanism. The end cap is porous, allowing air and water to flow in and out of the chamber. Then, before performing seed profiling corresponding to the type of seed detected in this chamber, the capped end of the chamber is engaged with slot 1306 and the body of the chamber is inserted into the reservoir 1304. While seed profiling is being performed at at least one seed development stage, purified water is pumped into the reservoir 1304, and the water permeates into the chamber through a porous end cap, providing moisture to the seeds within. Additionally, the drive mechanism activates, rotating the end caps that engage with the chamber. This causes the attached chamber to rotate, promoting the flow of water and air to the seeds. Additionally, while performing seed profiling at a different seed development stage, a drain valve located below the reservoir 1304 is opened, allowing water in the reservoir 1304 and the chamber to flow out through a drain tube located below the reservoir 1304. The electronics of the rotary germination system 1300 can programmatically control the rotation of the drive mechanism, the discharge of purified water into the reservoir 1304, the drainage of used water, and the activation of various environmental subsystems throughout a series of one or more seed development stages of the performed seed profile. After the final seed development stage, the chamber, which is filled with sprouts that have germinated from the dried seeds initially placed inside, can be removed from the housing 1302. In this way, the buds in the chamber are ready to be consumed. Button 1312 consists of physical components that a user can use to initiate, for example, the execution of a seed profile corresponding to the type of seed detected in the chamber. The status light 1314 displays various colors / types of light to indicate the current state related to the execution of the seed profile. For example, if the rotary germination system 1300 is ready to receive a new batch of seeds, the status light 1314 will show a first color (e.g., green); if the rotary germination system 1300 is currently performing seed profiling on the seeds contained in the chamber, the status light 1314 will show a second color (e.g., blue); and if a malfunction or other exception is detected in connection with the performance of seed profiling (e.g., the drive mechanism is clogged, the purified water storage 1310 needs to be refilled, etc.), the status light 1314 will show a third color (e.g., red).

[0059] Figure 14 shows yet another example of a rotary germination system. The rotary germination system 1400 is similar to the rotary germination system 100 in Figure 1, but differs in that the drive mechanism 1412 is a roller mounted flush with the side surface of the chamber 1402, which drives the rotation of the chamber 1402 containing the seeds. In comparison, the rotary germination system 100 includes a drive mechanism 112 that is connected to one end of the chamber 102 and drives the chamber 102. In the example shown in Figure 14, instead of engaging an end cap 1416 that covers the opening of the chamber 1402, the drive mechanism 1412 includes a rotating roller that is mounted flush with the chamber 1402. This drive mechanism 1412 is operated by a motor and rotates around its axis. The drive mechanism 1412 consists of rollers with a diameter smaller than the diameter of the chamber 1402. As the drive mechanism 1412 rotates, the chamber 1402 also rotates around its own axis 1418, because the drive mechanism 1412 is positioned flush with the chamber 1402. Since the end cap 1416 does not need to engage with the slot-type female receptor of the drive mechanism 1412 of the rotary germination system 1400, the end cap 1416 does not need to include a peg used for such a type of engagement. Regarding the other components, the end cap 1416 must include holes for allowing water and air to flow in and out of the water tank 1404 into the chamber 1402.

[0060] Except for the differences between the rotary germination system 100 and the rotary germination system 1400 described above, the water tank 1404, drain valve 1406, pump 1408, electronic equipment 1414, purified water storage 1410, and angle θ1420 of the rotary germination system 1400 can function similarly to the water tank 104, drain valve 106, pump 108, electronic equipment 114, purified water storage 110, and angle θ120 described for the rotary germination system 100.

[0061] Figure 15 is a flowchart illustrating the process for performing seed profiling. This process 1500 is carried out, at least in part, by a rotary germination system (for example, the rotary germination system 100 in Figure 1).

[0062] In step 1502, seed profiles corresponding to the types of seeds in the chambers of the rotary germination system are determined. The user can place the (dried) seeds to be germinated into a chamber that is inserted into the rotary germination system. The type of seed in this chamber can be determined by user input (e.g., input to a user interface physically located on the rotary germination system, or input to a user interface displayed in an application running on a customer's device wirelessly connected to the rotary germination system), scanning of an identifier printed on the seed package (e.g., a barcode, a quick response (QR) code) (e.g., by a sensor physically located on the rotary germination system, or by a sensor that is part of the customer's device), and / or analysis of an image of the seed in the chamber. The rotary germination system includes non-volatile memory configured to store seed profiles corresponding to various seed types. Each seed profile is executed by a processor in a rotary germination system and contains computer code capable of controlling components (e.g., water pump, motor, drain valve, sensors, environmental subsystem) to implement a series of seed development stages to promote sprout growth from seeds placed in the chamber. During this seed development stage, for example, the direction in which the chamber rotates, the amount of purified water released into the reservoir, whether or not to actively drain water from the reservoir, the target duration for implementing the conditions of the seed development stage, and one or more target specifications from among one or more target environmental measurements (e.g., humidity, temperature, water pH) are defined.

[0063] At 1504, seed profiling is performed and purified water is released into the reservoir. At this time, the chamber is partially submerged in the water tank, and purified water flows into the chamber through a porous end cap at the opening of the chamber. The rotary germination system (specifically, the processor of the rotary germination system) is configured to execute the seed profile (e.g., for various seed development stages) (e.g., iteratively) by controlling the components of the rotary germination system to satisfy the target conditions of the current seed development stage of the seed profile, including the discharge of purified water into a reservoir (e.g., by a pump). The seed chamber located within the reservoir is covered with a porous end cap, which allows water (and air) to be transported into (and outside) the chamber. In this way, by filling the reservoir with water, water is supplied to the chamber, and moisture is provided to the seeds inside the chamber.

[0064] At 1506, the drive mechanism is activated, rotating the chamber according to the seed profile. The execution of this seed profile (of its current seed development stage) may include initiating the rotation of the chamber according to a specified speed (e.g., a specified RPM) and / or direction (e.g., clockwise or counterclockwise). Furthermore, the drive mechanism is connected to a porous end cap that is connected to the chamber. As a result, when the end cap rotates due to the drive mechanism, the chamber inside the water tank rotates. As the chamber containing the seeds and water rotates, the seeds are better moistened, an ideal humidity environment is promoted throughout the chamber, and better sprout growth is facilitated. The end cap includes a stirring rod extending into the chamber, which is capable of breaking up any undesirable seed or sprout clumps that may form within the chamber. Furthermore, if these seeds or sprouts are clustered together, it may hinder the growth of the sprouts, so it is necessary to disperse them.

[0065] If the rotary germination system includes target environmental conditions (humidity, temperature, light, etc.), corresponding environmental sensors, and a control subsystem, then the actual / current sensor feedback / measurements can be compared to the target conditions specified in the seed profile. If the actual / current sensor feedback / measurements deviate from the target conditions by more than a threshold, the corresponding environmental control subsystem (fan, heater, light, etc.) can be activated to correct the environment inside or around the chamber to match the target conditions.

[0066] At step 1508, it is determined whether a malfunction has been detected. If a malfunction is detected in the rotary germination system, control will switch to 1510. Otherwise, that is, if a malfunction in the rotary germination system is not detected, control moves to 1512. Furthermore, if a current sensor that measures the current flowing through the drive mechanism detects a current value that deviates from the target current, it may detect a problem related to the drive mechanism (for example, a blockage or misalignment between the chamber and the drive mechanism). Furthermore, if an accelerometer measuring the acceleration of the rotary germination system flowing through the drive mechanism measures an acceleration value that deviates from the target acceleration, it may detect a problem related to the drive mechanism (such as the rotary germination system not being placed on a stable / flat surface). At least some other types of malfunctions in this rotary germination system may be detected using other sensor-related technologies.

[0067] At step 1510, a repair method corresponding to the detected fault type is activated. Furthermore, this repair method includes displaying a warning on the user interface and showing the user a predetermined type of status light to prompt the user to manually repair the problem.

[0068] In 1512, a decision was made on whether or not to drain the water from the reservoir. Then, when it is time to drain water from this reservoir, control switches to 1514. Otherwise, that is, if no water is drained from the reservoir, the control returns to 1506. Performing a seed profile (of the current seed development stage) may include opening a drain valve connected to the reservoir to drain water from the reservoir and chamber. Then, after this drain valve has been open for a certain period of time, it can be closed again (in anticipation of additional purified water being added to the reservoir to provide moisture to the seeds / sprouts in the chamber).

[0069] At 1514, the valve connected to the water tank opens, allowing water to be discharged from the tank.

[0070] At step 1516, it is determined whether the seed profiling process has been completed. Once the execution of this seed profile is complete, process 1500 will terminate. Otherwise, i.e., if the seed profile has not been completed, the control may return to 1504 and initiate an operation to release more purified water into the reservoir according to the (next) seed development stage of the seed profile. The seed profile is completed when all seed development stages of the seed profile have been repeated. Furthermore, after the seed profiling is fully completed, the dried seeds placed in the chamber should have germinated (i.e., be ready for consumption). After the seed profiling is complete, the rotary germination system may display a prompt (e.g., using status light) to encourage the user to remove the chamber filled with sprouts from the rotary germination system. Users can provide feedback on the growing sprouts through the user interface associated with the rotary germination system (e.g., whether the sprouts should be kept in the rotary germination system for a longer period, and / or whether some seeds have not germinated), and the executed seed profile will be modified accordingly, so that subsequent runs of this seed profile will include the changes made in consideration of the user feedback.

[0071] As described herein, in various embodiments, the rotary germination system provides one or more of the following features:

[0072] 1. Automated irrigation of seedling crops.

[0073] 2. Automatic control of airflow to the growth chamber.

[0074] 3. Automatic stirring of growing crops.

[0075] 4. (If necessary) Seed-specific profiles that modify the input for growth to suit specific seeds.

[0076] 5. Minimal counter space required.

[0077] 6. Efficient use of space for additional unit expansion (for example, the ability to connect or stack multiple instances of the rotary germination system).

[0078] 7. Climate control of the growth chamber to maintain safety and crop quality.

[0079] 8. Pathogenicity and safety of crops.

[0080] 9. Adaptation to various climates.

[0081] The embodiments described above are explained for clarity, but the present invention is not limited to the details described above. There are many alternative methods for carrying out the present invention. The embodiments are not intended to limit the invention.

Claims

1. A rotary germination system comprising a chamber including an opening, a porous end cap that engages with the opening of the chamber, and a water tank, The porous end cap includes holes that extend to the edge of the opening of the chamber, The chamber and the porous end cap are at least partially submerged in the water tank, so that the inside of the chamber communicates with the water tank through the porous end cap. A rotary germination system in which the porous end cap engages with a drive mechanism that rotates the chamber and the porous end cap while the chamber and the porous end cap are at least partially submerged in the water tank.

2. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, further comprising an irrigation system for discharging purified water into the aforementioned water storage tank.

3. The rotary germination system according to claim 2, wherein the irrigation system includes a pump that draws the purified water from a water source to the water tank via a tube.

4. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, wherein the porous end cap includes a stirring rod that extends into the chamber when the porous end cap is engaged with the opening of the chamber.

5. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, wherein the shape of the chamber is cylindrical or frustoconical.

6. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, further comprising a drain valve that opens to discharge water from the water tank.

7. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, further comprising a sensor for detecting blockages related to the drive mechanism.

8. Equipped with an additional processor, The rotary germination system according to claim 1, wherein the processor detects the type of seed associated with the seed in the chamber and obtains a seed profile corresponding to the type of seed.

9. The chamber further comprises a sensor for determining the measured value in the chamber, The rotary germination system according to claim 8, wherein the processor compares the measured value with target conditions specified in the seed profile and, in response to a determination that the measured value deviates from the target conditions by a threshold, controls the environmental subsystem to correct the environment in the chamber.

10. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the sensor includes a temperature sensor.

11. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the sensor includes a humidity sensor.

12. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the sensor includes a water level sensor.

13. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the environmental subsystem includes a fan or a heater.

14. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the environmental subsystem includes an irrigation system.

15. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the environmental subsystem includes light.

16. The rotary germination system according to claim 9, wherein the seed profile specifies the speed at which the drive mechanism rotates the porous end cap and the chamber.

17. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, further comprising a status light that displays a light indicating the current state of the rotary germination system.

18. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, wherein the chamber is inclined with respect to the surface on which the rotary germination system is installed.

19. The rotary germination system according to claim 1, wherein the porous end cap contains stainless steel.

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