Control device, control method, and rack system

Abstract

To achieve space savings in the cultivation of plants and other products, or in the storage of goods. [Solution] The control device includes a movement control unit. The movement control unit controls the movement of movable racks in the rack system so that, after the first operation is completed, a gap is created between all three or more racks. The rack system includes three or more racks in which plants or mushrooms are cultivated or goods are stored. The racks are located inside other structures. At least one of the racks is a movable rack. Even when the movable rack moves, at least one of the racks is a first rack in which no aisle is secured. The aisle is used when the first operation, which is an operation on plants, mushrooms, or goods, is performed. The movement of the movable rack changes one or more of the first racks into second racks in which an aisle is secured.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to a control device, a control method, and a rack system.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0002]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0003] Patent Document 1 discloses a plant cultivation device. The object of the present disclosure is to realize space saving for cultivating plants or storing goods.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0004] The control device according to the first aspect includes a movement control unit. The movement control unit controls the movement of the movable rack in the rack system so that after the first operation is completed, a gap occurs between the rack and other racks in all of three or more racks. The rack system includes three or more racks in which plants or mushrooms are cultivated or goods are stored. The racks are located inside other structures. At least one of the three or more racks is a movable rack that can move. Even when the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks is a first rack where no passage is secured. The passage is used when the first operation, which is an operation for any one of plants, mushrooms, and goods, is performed. By moving the movable rack, one or more first racks among the three or more racks are changed to second racks where passages are secured.

[0005] The control device according to the second aspect is the control device according to the first aspect, and when one or more first racks are changed to second racks by moving the movable rack, one or more second racks are changed to first racks.

[0006] The control device in the third view is the control device in the first or second view, wherein there is an air supply inlet in at least one of the floor of the other structure, the wall of the other structure, or the ceiling of the other structure. The movement control unit further controls the movement of the movable racks after the first operation is completed, such that three or more racks do not face at least a portion of the area of ​​the air supply inlets.

[0007] The control device in the fourth view is a control device in the first view or the third view, wherein at least one of the floor of the other structure, the wall of the other structure, or the ceiling of the other structure has an exhaust vent for exhausting air from the inside to the outside of the other structure. The movement control unit further controls the movement of the movable racks after the first operation is completed, such that three or more racks do not face at least a portion of the area of ​​the exhaust vents.

[0008] The control device of the fifth viewpoint is a control device of any viewpoint from the first viewpoint to the fourth viewpoint, wherein the movement control unit further controls the movement of the movable racks such that, after the first operation is completed, a gap is created between at least one of the movable racks and the wall of another structure.

[0009] The control method of the sixth perspective has a movement control step. The movement control step controls the movement of movable racks in the rack system so that, after the first operation is completed, a gap is created between all three or more racks. The rack system comprises three or more racks on which plants or mushrooms are cultivated or goods are stored. The racks are located inside other structures. At least one of the three or more racks is a movable rack. Even when the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks is a first rack for which a passageway is not secured. The passageway is used when the first operation, which is an operation on plants, mushrooms, or goods, is performed. As a result of the movement of the movable rack, one or more of the three or more first racks become second racks for which a passageway is secured.

[0010] The seventh aspect of the rack system comprises three or more racks on which plants or mushrooms are cultivated or goods are stored, and a movement control unit. The movement control unit controls the movement of movable racks in the rack system so that, after the completion of the first operation, a gap is created between all three or more racks. The racks are located inside other structures. At least one of the three or more racks is a movable rack. Even when the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks remains a first rack without a passageway. The passageway is used when the first operation, which is an operation on plants, mushrooms, or goods, is performed. As a result of the movement of the movable rack, one or more of the three or more first racks become second racks with a passageway. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0011] [Figure 1] This is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 2] This is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 100A. [Figure 3] This is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 100B. [Figure 4] This is a front view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. [Figure 5] This is a rear view showing the detailed configuration of rack system 10. [Figure 6] This is a left side view showing the detailed configuration of rack system 10. [Figure 7] This is a right side view showing the detailed configuration of rack system 10. [Figure 8] This is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. [Figure 9] This is a schematic diagram showing a partial configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 10] This is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 11] This is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. [Figure 12] It is a schematic configuration diagram showing a partial configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 13] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 14] It is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. [Figure 15] It is a schematic configuration diagram showing a partial configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 16] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 17] It is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. [Figure 18] It is a functional block diagram of the control device 19. [Figure 19] It is a flowchart showing the operation of Equipment 1. [Figure 20] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 21] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 22] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 1. [Figure 23] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 2. [Figure 24] It is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of the rack 200A. [Figure 25] It is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of the rack 200B. [Figure 26] It is a front view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. [Figure 27] It is a rear view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. [Figure 28] It is a left side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. [Figure 29] It is a right side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. [Figure 30] It is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. [Figure 31] It is a schematic configuration diagram showing a partial configuration of Equipment 2. [Figure 32] It is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 2. [Figure 33] This is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. [Figure 34] This is a functional block diagram of the control device 29. [Figure 35] This is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 3. [Figure 36] This is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 300A. [Figure 37] This is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 300B. [Figure 38] This is a front view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. [Figure 39] This is a rear view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. [Figure 40] This is a left side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. [Figure 41] This is a right side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. [Figure 42] This is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. [Figure 43] This is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Equipment 3. [Figure 44] This is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. [Figure 45] This is a functional block diagram of the control device 39. [Figure 46] This figure shows an example of a hardware configuration. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0012] <Current situation> In recent years, racks have been used inside structures for cultivating plants or mushrooms, or for storing goods. Cultivating plants or mushrooms, and storing goods, require human or mechanical work on the plants, mushrooms, and goods. Passageways for human or mechanical work are provided within the structure. This leads to the problem of large spaces being occupied by these passageways within the structure. The following describes an example of equipment that contributes to solving the above problem.

[0013] In the following embodiments, "front" means the X direction, "back" means the negative X direction, "left" means the negative Z direction, "right" means the Z direction, "down" means the negative Y direction, and "up" means the Y direction. Depth is the length in the X direction. Width is the length in the Z direction. Height is the distance from the floor in the Y direction.

[0014] In the following embodiments, the floor is approximately horizontal. The perspective view is a view from diagonally above. The front view is a view from the front. The rear view is a view from the rear. The left side view is a view from the left. The right side view is a view from the right. The top view is a view from above. In drawings showing opaque components, the component may be shown as transparent for the purpose of making the interior of the component visible.

[0015] In the following embodiments, the structure includes buildings and structures. A building is a structure fixed to the land that has a roof and columns or walls. A structure is an artificial object fixed to the land. In the following embodiments, the planar components may be curved components that cover the entire plane or a portion thereof.

[0016] <First Embodiment> (1) Overall structure The overall configuration of the facility 1 according to the first embodiment will now be described. Figure 1 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of facility 1. Facility 1 mainly comprises a plant factory 1000 and a control device 19.

[0017] (1-1) Plant factory The plant factory 1000 is a building or a room within a building where plants P are cultivated. The interior I1 of the plant factory 1000 mainly consists of a rack system 10. Details of the rack system 10 will be described later. The plant factory 1000 mainly consists of a front wall 11, a left side wall 12, a right side wall 13, a rear wall 14, a ceiling 15, and one or more lights (not shown).

[0018] The front wall 11 is an example of a first wall and is approximately perpendicular to the floor F. The front wall 11 is approximately parallel to the rear wall 14 and is in contact with the left wall 12, the right wall 13, and the ceiling 15.

[0019] The left wall 12 is approximately perpendicular to the floor F. The left wall 12 is in contact with the front wall 11, the rear wall 14, and the ceiling 15. An entrance / exit 121 and an exhaust vent X are provided in the left wall 12.

[0020] The entrance / exit 121 is an entrance for a person or equipment scheduled to perform the first operation to move from the outside of the plant factory 1000 to the inside I1. The entrance / exit 121 is also an exit for a person or equipment that has performed the first operation to move from the inside I1 to the outside of the plant factory 1000. The entrance / exit 121 may be a structure that can be opened and closed (opening / closing opening) or a structure that is open (opening). Multiple entrances / exits 121 may be provided on the left wall 12.

[0021] The first type of work refers to agricultural work performed by people or equipment on plants P. Examples of agricultural work include sowing, which is the work of planting seeds or seedlings of plants P; cultivation, which is the work performed for the growth of plants P (watering, spraying pesticides, pruning, fertilizing, pest control, etc.); harvesting, which is the work of harvesting all or part of plants P; soil work, which is the work of preparing the soil or tilling it; hydroponic work, which is the work of storing or changing nutrient solutions; and other agricultural work.

[0022] The exhaust port X is an opening that exhausts air from the interior I1 to the outside of another structure. The exhaust port X may be provided in the floor F, the front wall 11, the right side wall 13, the rear wall 14, or the ceiling 15. The exhaust port X may also be formed in an air conditioner located in the interior I1. For example, the exhaust port X may be the intake port of an air conditioner located in the interior I1. Multiple exhaust ports X may be provided.

[0023] The right wall 13 is approximately perpendicular to the floor F. The right wall 13 faces the left wall 12 and is in contact with the front wall 11, the rear wall 14, and the ceiling 15. An entrance similar to the entrance 121 may also be provided in the right wall 13.

[0024] The rear wall 14 is an example of a second wall and is approximately perpendicular to the floor F. The rear wall 14 is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and is in contact with the left wall 12, the right wall 13, and the ceiling 15.

[0025] The ceiling 15 faces the floor F, is approximately parallel to the floor F, and is approximately horizontal. The ceiling 15 is in contact with the front wall 11, the left wall 12, the right wall 13, and the rear wall 14. A supply opening O is provided in the ceiling 15.

[0026] The supply port O is an opening that supplies conditioned air to the interior I1. Examples of air conditioning include cooling, heating, ventilation, air purification, dehumidification, and humidification. For example, the supply port O is connected to an air passage that leads to the air outlet of an air conditioner. Examples of air passages include, but are not limited to, hoses, ducts, air passages in the ceiling, air passages behind walls, and air passages under the floor.

[0027] The supply port O may be provided in the floor F, the front wall 11, the left wall 12, the right wall 13, or the rear wall 14. The supply port O may also be formed in an air conditioner located inside I1. For example, the supply port O may be the air outlet of an air conditioner located inside I1. Multiple supply ports O may be provided.

[0028] The interior I1 is formed when the area of ​​the floor F is surrounded by the front wall 11, the left wall 12, the right wall 13, the rear wall 14, and the ceiling 15.

[0029] (1-2) Control device The control device 19 primarily controls the rack system 10. The control device 19 connects to the rack system 10 by wire or wireless connection. Details of the control device 19 will be described later. The control device 19 may be located on internal I1. The control device 19 may also be located on a server or in the cloud. The control device 19 may be connected to rack systems 10 located in multiple plant factories 1000.

[0030] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Rack System The detailed configuration of the rack system 10 is described below. The rack system 10 mainly consists of rack 100A, rack 100B, rack 100C, rack 100D, rack 100E, first guide rail 171A, and first guide rail 171B. Note that the number of racks in the rack system 10 may be three or more, but is not limited to five.

[0031] The structure of rack 100A and the structure of rack 100E are approximately symmetrical with respect to the planes extending in the Y and Z directions. The structure of rack 100B, rack 100C, and rack 100D are similar. The function of rack 100A and the function of rack 100E are similar. The function of rack 100B, rack 100C, and rack 100D are similar. The structure and function of rack 100A and rack 100B will be described below.

[0032] (2-1-1) Rack 100A Figure 2 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 100A. Rack 100A has a plurality of stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. For example, rack 100A has five stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. Plants P are cultivated on each stand S. Plants P are planted in soil (not shown) on rack 100A or immersed in nutrient solution (not shown) on rack 100A. Rack 100A may be provided with a lighting device (not shown) that serves as a light source for plants P.

[0033] Rack 100A is not a movable rack. A movable rack is a rack that moves approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11 (approximately in the X direction and approximately in the negative X direction).

[0034] (2-1-2) Rack 100B Figure 3 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 100B. Rack 100B has a plurality of stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. For example, rack 100B has five stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. Plants P are cultivated on each stand S. Plants P are planted in soil (not shown) on rack 100B or immersed in nutrient solution (not shown) on rack 100B. Rack 100B may be provided with a lighting device (not shown) that serves as a light source for plants P.

[0035] Rack 100B moves approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11 by sliding guided by the first guide rails 171A and 171B. Rack 100B is a movable rack.

[0036] (2-1-3) Various forms of rack systems Various configurations of the rack system 10 will be described. Figure 4 is a front view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 5 is a rear view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 6 is a left side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 7 is a right side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 8 is a top view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 9 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the configuration of equipment 1 excluding the racks.

[0037] Rack 100A is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 100A is the rack that is located at the shortest distance in an approximately perpendicular direction to the rear wall 14. Rack 100A is elongated in the approximately horizontal direction (approximately Z direction) along which the front wall 11 extends, due to racks 100B, 100C, and 100D.

[0038] Rack 100A is installed such that the distance between it and the left wall 12 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this. Rack 100A is installed such that the distance between it and the right wall 13 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this. Rack 100A is installed such that the distance between it and the rear wall 14 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this.

[0039] Aisle A exists in front of rack 100A. Rack 100A is a rack that has a reserved aisle A. Rack 100A is the second rack. The second rack is a rack that has a reserved aisle A.

[0040] Passageway A is used by people or equipment when the first operation is performed. Passageway A is substantially parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The depth of passageway A is 40 cm to 80 cm, but is not limited to this. Passageway A is connected to the entrance / exit 121 by a path that is wider than or equal to the depth of passageway A. The provision of passageway A in a rack includes the fact that the distance between the rack and other racks, or the distance between the rack and a wall, is greater than or equal to the depth of passageway A. The provision of passageway A in a rack includes the fact that the first operation can be performed over the entire area of ​​the rack.

[0041] Rack 100B is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The direction of movement of rack 100B is approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Therefore, even when rack 100B moves, it remains approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 100B is shorter in the approximately horizontal direction in which the front wall 11 extends due to racks 100A and 100E.

[0042] Rack 100B is installed such that the distance between it and the left wall 12 is greater than or equal to the depth of passage A. Rack 100B is installed such that the distance between it and the right wall 13 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this.

[0043] Aisle A is located behind rack 100B. Rack 100B is the rack to which aisle A is secured. Rack 100B is the second rack.

[0044] Rack 100C is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The direction of movement of rack 100C is approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Therefore, even when rack 100C moves, it remains approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 100C is shorter in the approximately horizontal direction in which the front wall 11 extends due to racks 100A and 100E.

[0045] Rack 100C is installed such that the distance between the left wall 12 and rack 100C is greater than or equal to the depth of passage A. Rack 100C is installed such that the distance between the right wall 13 and rack 100C is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this.

[0046] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100C. Rack 100C is a rack for which aisle A is not secured. Rack 100C is the first rack. The first rack is a rack for which aisle A is not secured.

[0047] Rack 100D is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The direction of movement of rack 100D is approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Therefore, even when rack 100D moves, it remains approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 100D is shorter in the approximately horizontal direction in which the front wall 11 extends due to racks 100A and 100E.

[0048] Rack 100D is installed such that the distance between the left wall 12 and rack 100C is greater than or equal to the depth of passage A. Rack 100D is installed such that the distance between the right wall 13 and rack 100D is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this.

[0049] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100D. Rack 100D is the first rack.

[0050] Rack 100E is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 100E is the rack that is located at the shortest distance in the direction approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Rack 100E is elongated in the direction approximately horizontal to the front wall 11, due to racks 100B, 100C, and 100D.

[0051] Rack 100E is installed such that the distance between it and the left wall 12 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this. Rack 100E is installed such that the distance between it and the right wall 13 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this. Rack 100E is installed such that the distance between it and the front wall 11 is between 0 cm and 5 cm, but is not limited to this.

[0052] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100E. Rack 100E is the first rack.

[0053] The first guide rails 171A and 171B are fixed to the floor F. Alternatively, the first guide rails 171A and 171B may be fixed to the recessed portion of the concave shape of the floor F. In this case, even if the first guide rails 171A and 171B are present on the floor F, it is less likely that a step will occur in the floor F.

[0054] The first guide rails 171A and 171B extend substantially perpendicular to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The first guide rails 171A and 171B are installed to guide the movable racks (rack 100B, rack 100C, rack 100D).

[0055] The distance between rack 100A and rack 100B is greater than or equal to the depth of aisle A. The distance between rack 100B and rack 100C is approximately zero, but is not limited to this. The distance between rack 100C and rack 100D is approximately zero, but is not limited to this. The distance between rack 100D and rack 100E is approximately zero, but is not limited to this.

[0056] In the configuration of rack system 10 shown in Figure 1, passage A faces the entire area of ​​supply port O. Racks 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 100D faces the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Passage A, racks 100A, 100B, 100C, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X.

[0057] Since the shortest distance from racks 100B, 100C, and 100D to the left wall 12 is greater than the depth of passage A, a path from passage A to entrance 121 is also secured.

[0058] A different configuration of the rack system 10 from the one shown in Figure 1 will be described. Figure 10 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the equipment 1. Figure 11 is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 12 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the configuration of the equipment 1 excluding the racks.

[0059] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100A. Rack 100A is the first rack. There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100B. Rack 100B is the first rack. There is an aisle A in front of rack 100C. Rack 100C is the second rack. There is an aisle A behind rack 100D. Rack 100D is the second rack. There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100E. Rack 100E is the first rack.

[0060] The distance between rack 100A and rack 100B is approximately zero, but not limited to this. The distance between rack 100B and rack 100C is approximately zero, but not limited to this. The distance between rack 100C and rack 100D is greater than or equal to the depth of aisle A. The distance between rack 100D and rack 100E is approximately zero, but not limited to this.

[0061] Passage A, racks 100A, 100C, 100D, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 100B faces the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 100D faces the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Passage A, racks 100A, 100B, 100C, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X.

[0062] Since the shortest distance from racks 100B, 100C, and 100D to the left wall 12 is greater than the depth of passage A, a path from passage A to entrance 121 is also secured.

[0063] A different configuration of the rack system 10 from those shown in Figures 1 and 10 will be described. Figure 13 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the equipment 1. Figure 14 is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10. Figure 15 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the configuration of the equipment 1 excluding the racks.

[0064] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100A. Rack 100A is the first rack. There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100B. Rack 100B is the first rack. There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 100C. Rack 100C is the first rack. There is an aisle A in front of rack 100D. Rack 100D is the second rack. There is an aisle A behind rack 100E. Rack 100E is the second rack.

[0065] The distance between rack 100A and rack 100B is approximately zero, but not limited to this. The distance between rack 100B and rack 100C is approximately zero, but not limited to this. The distance between rack 100C and rack 100D is approximately zero, but not limited to this. The distance between rack 100D and rack 100E is greater than or equal to the depth of aisle A.

[0066] Passage A, racks 100A, 100C, 100D, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 100B faces the entire area of ​​supply port O. Passage A faces the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Racks 100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X.

[0067] Since the shortest distance from racks 100B, 100C, and 100D to the left wall 12 is greater than the depth of passage A, a path from passage A to entrance 121 is also secured.

[0068] This section describes a configuration of the rack system 10 that differs from the configurations shown in Figures 1, 10, and 13. Figure 16 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of equipment 1. Figure 17 is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 10.

[0069] There is no aisle A in front of or behind any of the racks. All racks are the first rack.

[0070] The distance between rack 100A and rack 100B is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 100B and rack 100C is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 100C and rack 100D is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 100D and rack 100E is between 10cm and 25cm.

[0071] In all racks, there is a gap between racks. While the gap between racks is approximately the same in all racks, it is not limited to this. For example, the gap between racks may differ in all racks.

[0072] Racks 100A, 100C, 100D, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 100B faces a portion of the area of ​​supply port O. None of the racks face at least a portion of the area of ​​supply port O.

[0073] Racks 100A, 100B, 100C, and 100E do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Rack 100D faces a portion of the area of ​​exhaust port X. All racks do not face at least a portion of the area of ​​exhaust port X.

[0074] (2-2) Control device The detailed configuration of the control device 19 will now be described. Figure 18 is a functional block diagram of the control device 19. The control device 19 mainly comprises a reception unit 191 and a movement control unit 192.

[0075] (2-2-1) Reception Department The reception unit 191 receives work information and completion information from a person or device via an input device (not shown). Work information is information indicating the subject of the first work. Completion information is information indicating that the first work has been completed. The reception unit 191 may also receive at least one of the work information and completion information from a server or cloud via a network.

[0076] (2-2-2) Mobile Control Unit The movement control unit 192 controls racks 100B, 100C, and 100D to move approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11 based on work information. Furthermore, the movement control unit 192 controls all racks to maintain approximately the same spacing between racks and other tacks based on completion information. The control of the movement control unit 192 will be described below, divided into control based on work information and control based on completion information.

[0077] (2-2-2-1) Control based on work information When work information is received indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100A or rack 100B, the movement control unit 192 controls the system so that the configuration shown in Figure 1 is realized.

[0078] If the configuration shown in Figure 1 has already been implemented, the movement control unit 192 does not move racks 100B, 100C, and 100D. Racks 100C, 100D, and 100E remain unchanged as the first rack. Racks 100A and 100B remain unchanged as the second rack.

[0079] In the configuration shown in Figure 10, the movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B and 100C in approximately the X direction. The first racks, racks 100A and 100B, are transformed into the second racks. The second racks, racks 100C and 100D, are transformed into the first racks. Rack 100E remains unchanged as the first rack.

[0080] In the configuration shown in Figure 13, the movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B, 100C, and 100D in approximately the X direction. The first racks, racks 100A and 100B, are transformed into the second rack. The second racks, racks 100D and 100E, are transformed into the first rack. Rack 100C remains the first rack and does not change.

[0081] In the configuration shown in Figure 16, the movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B, 100C, and 100D in approximately the X direction. The first racks, racks 100A and 100B, are transformed into the second racks. Racks 100C, 100D, and 100E remain the first racks.

[0082] When work information indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100C is received, the movement control unit 192 controls the system so that the configuration shown in Figure 10 is realized.

[0083] When work information indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100D is received, the movement control unit 192 controls the system so that the configuration shown in Figure 10 or Figure 13 is realized.

[0084] When work information indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100E is received, the movement control unit 192 controls the system so that the configuration shown in Figure 13 is realized.

[0085] In the rack system 10, the first rack always exists regardless of where the movable racks (rack 100B, rack 100C, rack 100D) are moved. The configuration of the rack system 10 is not limited to those shown in Figures 1, 10, 13, and 16. Various configurations can be realized by guiding the movable racks on the first guide rails 171A and 171B.

[0086] (2-2-2-2) Control based on termination information When termination information is received, the movement control unit 192 controls the system so that the configuration shown in Figure 16 is realized. As a result, all racks no longer face at least a portion of the supply port O. All racks no longer face at least a portion of the exhaust port X.

[0087] In the configuration shown in Figure 1, the movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B, 100C, and 100D in approximately the negative X direction. The second racks, racks 100A and 100B, become the first racks. Racks 100C, 100D, and 100E remain the first racks.

[0088] In the configuration shown in Figure 10, the movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B and 100C in the X direction. The movement control unit 192 also moves rack 100D in approximately the negative X direction. The second racks, racks 100C and 100D, become the first racks. Racks 100A, 100B, and 100E remain the first racks and do not change.

[0089] In the configuration shown in Figure 13, the movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B, 100C, and 100D in the X direction. The second racks, racks 100D and 100E, become the first racks. Racks 100A, 100B, and 100C remain the first racks.

[0090] If the configuration shown in Figure 16 has already been implemented, the movement control unit 192 will not move racks 100B, 100C, and 100D. All racks will remain as the first rack.

[0091] Furthermore, if termination information is received, the movement control unit 192 may control all racks so that they do not come into contact with other racks. In Figure 16, all racks are in a state where they do not come into contact with other racks.

[0092] (3) Operation The operation of Equipment 1 when a person or device performs the first operation will be described below. The first operation is performed in the following order: rack 100A, rack 100B, rack 100C, rack 100D, and rack 100E. Figure 19 is a flowchart of the operation of Equipment 1. The configuration of the rack system 10 is the configuration of the rack system 10 shown in Figure 16.

[0093] Heated air is supplied to the interior I1 from the supply port O. Because there is space between racks in all racks, the air flows to all racks. The interior I1 maintains a higher temperature than the outside of the plant factory 1000. The interior I1 provides a suitable environment for cultivating plants P. The air from the interior I1 is exhausted to the outside from the exhaust port X.

[0094] A person or device inputs work information to the control device 19 indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100A. The reception unit 191 receives the work information indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100A. The movement control unit 192 moves racks 100B, 100C, and 100D in approximately the X direction (step S1). As a result, the movement control unit 192 realizes the configuration shown in Figure 1. A passage A for rack 100A is secured. A person or device moves in front of rack 100A via the entrance / exit 121 and passage A. The person or device starts the first work on rack 100A.

[0095] After the first work on rack 100A is completed, and since aisle A for rack 100B is already secured, the person or equipment begins the first work on rack 100B. After the first work on rack 100B is completed, the person or equipment leaves aisle A.

[0096] A person or device inputs work information to the control device 19 indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100C. The reception unit 191 receives the work information indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100C. The movement control unit 192 moves rack 100B and rack 100C in approximately the negative X direction (step S2). As a result, the movement control unit 192 realizes the configuration shown in Figure 10.

[0097] The person or equipment moves in front of rack 100C via aisle A. The person or equipment begins the first operation on rack 100C. After the first operation on rack 100C is completed, since aisle A for rack 100D is also already secured, the person or equipment begins the first operation on rack 100D. After the first operation on rack 100D is completed, the person or equipment leaves aisle A.

[0098] A person or device inputs work information to the control device 19 indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100E. The reception unit 191 receives the work information indicating that the target of the first work is rack 100E. The movement control unit 192 moves rack 100D in approximately the negative X direction (step S3). As a result, the movement control unit 192 realizes the configuration shown in Figure 13.

[0099] A person or device moves behind rack 100E via aisle A. The person or device begins the first operation on rack 100E. After the first operation on rack 100E is completed, the person or device leaves aisle A.

[0100] A person or device inputs termination information to the control device 19. The reception unit 191 receives the termination information. The movement control unit 192 moves rack 100B, rack 100C, and rack 100D in approximately the X direction (step S4). As a result, the movement control unit 192 realizes the configuration shown in Figure 16. Approximately the same spacing is maintained between all racks and other racks. None of the racks face at least a portion of the supply port O. None of the racks face at least a portion of the exhaust port X.

[0101] (4) Variations Regarding the modified version of the first embodiment, we will omit explanations of points that are the same as those of the first embodiment and focus on explaining the differences from the first embodiment.

[0102] (4-1) Variation 1A Facility 1 may include a greenhouse 2000 instead of a plant factory 1000. Figure 20 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Facility 1 according to Modification 1A. The greenhouse 2000 is a structure in which a frame is assembled and the upper part is covered with vinyl or the like for cultivating plants P. Plants P are cultivated inside the greenhouse 2000.

[0103] Furthermore, facility 1 may be equipped with a greenhouse (such as a glass greenhouse or a plastic film greenhouse) instead of the vinyl greenhouse 2000. Also, the vinyl greenhouse 2000 may or may not be a building.

[0104] The interior I2 of the greenhouse 2000 mainly houses a rack system 10. The greenhouse 2000 mainly consists of a front wall 11, a left side wall 12, a right side wall 13, a rear wall 14, a ceiling 15, and one or more lights (not shown). The structure and function of the components of the greenhouse 2000 are the same as in the first embodiment, except for the shape of the ceiling 15, so a description is omitted.

[0105] (4-2) Modification 1B Facility 1 may include a mushroom cultivation facility 3000 instead of a plant factory 1000. Figure 21 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Facility 1 according to Modification 1B. The mushroom cultivation facility 3000 refers to a building or greenhouse in which mushrooms M are cultivated.

[0106] A rack system 10 is mainly installed inside the mushroom cultivation facility 3000, I3. The rack system 10 is the same as in the first embodiment, except that mushrooms M are cultivated on the racks instead of plants P.

[0107] The mushroom cultivation facility 3000 mainly consists of a front wall 11, a left side wall 12, a right side wall 13, a rear wall 14, a ceiling 15, and one or more lights (not shown). The structure and function of the components of the mushroom cultivation facility 3000 are the same as in the first embodiment, so a description is omitted.

[0108] Each rack will have a mycelial culture bottle B. Mushroom M will be cultivated in mycelial culture bottle B. Mycelial culture bottle B and mushroom M together will be called set MS. Mushroom M may be cultivated in a mushroom substrate bag instead of mycelial culture bottle B. Mushroom M may be cultivated on wood instead of mycelial culture bottle B.

[0109] The first type of work refers to mushroom cultivation work performed by people or equipment on mushroom M. Examples of mushroom cultivation work include inoculation work, which involves planting mushroom M spawn; cultivation work, which is performed for cultivating mushroom M; harvesting work, which involves harvesting all or part of mushroom M; and other mushroom cultivation work.

[0110] (4-3) Modification 1C Facility 1 may include a warehouse 4000 instead of a plant factory 1000. Figure 22 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of Facility 1 according to Modification 1C. Examples of warehouse 4000 include, but are not limited to, ambient temperature warehouses, low temperature warehouses, frozen warehouses, and refrigerated warehouses.

[0111] A rack system 10 is mainly installed inside warehouse 4000 I4. The rack system 10 is the same as in the first embodiment, except that instead of plants P being cultivated on the racks, goods G are stored there. Goods G include goods packaged in cardboard boxes or the like.

[0112] Warehouse 4000 mainly consists of a front wall 11, a left side wall 12, a right side wall 13, a rear wall 14, a ceiling 15, and one or more lights (not shown). The structure and function of the components of warehouse 4000 are the same as in the first embodiment, so a description is omitted.

[0113] The first operation is warehouse work performed on product G by a person or equipment (robot, vehicle, etc.). Examples of warehouse work include loading work, which involves placing product G onto racks; picking work, which involves picking product G from racks; checking work, which involves verifying the quantity and condition of product G; and other warehouse work. A roller conveyor (not shown) for transporting product G may be provided inside warehouse 4000.

[0114] (5) Characteristics (5-1) The control device 19 includes a movement control unit 192. In the rack system 10, after the first operation is completed, the movement control unit 192 controls the movement of the movable racks so that a gap is created between all three or more racks. The rack system 10 includes three or more racks on which plants P or mushrooms M are cultivated, or where goods G are stored. The racks are located inside other structures. At least one of the three or more racks is a movable rack. Even when the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks is a first rack for which passage A is not secured. Passage A is used when the first operation, which is an operation on plants P, mushrooms M, or goods G, is performed. Due to the movement of the movable rack, one or more of the three or more first racks become second racks for which passage A is secured.

[0115] Racks for cultivating plants are used inside the structure. Cultivating plants requires human or mechanical work. Passageways are provided inside the structure for human or mechanical work. The passageways occupy a large amount of space inside the structure, reducing the space available for plant cultivation. This increases the cost of space for plant cultivation. In addition, air conditioning is provided inside the structure to create an environment suitable for plant cultivation. The amount of energy required for air conditioning correlates with volume. Wide passageways inside the structure increase the amount of energy required for plant cultivation. This increases the cost of air conditioning for plant cultivation.

[0116] On the other hand, if racks are densely packed together to save space and energy, the racks and plants obstruct airflow. This results in uneven temperature and humidity, creating an environment unsuitable for plant cultivation. It is difficult to move all racks to create space between them after each frequent task to allow airflow.

[0117] In the rack system 10, there is a first rack in which passage A is not secured, regardless of where the movable rack is moved. Because of the existence of this first rack, the rack system 10 can achieve space savings in passage A. The rack system 10, controlled by the control device 19, can achieve space savings and energy savings in the cultivation of plants P, etc.

[0118] On the other hand, the control device 19 controls all racks so that a gap is created between racks after work on the plants P is completed. The control device 19 creates air passages for all racks in a rack system 10 where racks are densely packed. As a result, the control device 19 can prevent temperature and humidity unevenness while saving space and energy, and can create an environment suitable for the cultivation of plants P.

[0119] (5-2) The control device 19, when one or more first racks are changed into second racks due to the movement of the movable racks, will change one or more second racks into first racks.

[0120] In the rack system 10, even if the first rack changes to a second rack, other second racks change to first racks. In the rack system 10, there are racks for which aisle A is not secured. Therefore, the rack system 10 controlled by the control device 19 can achieve space saving and energy saving in the cultivation of plants P.

[0121] (5-3) The control device 19 ensures that there is an air supply port O in at least one of the floor F of the other structure, the wall of the other structure, or the ceiling 15 of the other structure that supplies air-conditioned air. After the first operation is completed, the movement control unit 192 further controls the movement of the movable racks so that three or more racks do not face any area of ​​at least one of the air supply ports O.

[0122] Air is blown out from the supply port. When a rack faces a portion of the supply port, the degree of air conditioning can differ significantly between the immediate vicinity of the rack and the area far from it. As a result, temperature or humidity variations may occur inside the rack.

[0123] After the first operation is completed, the control device 19 moves the movable racks so that at least three racks do not face any part of the supply port O. As a result, the control device 19 can reduce the possibility of temperature or humidity unevenness, and create an environment more suitable for the cultivation of plants P inside I1, etc.

[0124] (5-4) The control device 19 determines that at least one of the floor F of the other structure, the wall of the other structure, or the ceiling 15 of the other structure has an exhaust port X that exhausts air from the interior I1 etc. to the outside of the other structure. After the first operation is completed, the movement control unit 192 further controls the movement of the movable racks so that three or more racks do not face at least a portion of the area of ​​the exhaust port X.

[0125] Air is drawn into the exhaust vent. If the rack and a portion of the exhaust vent face each other, the exhaust may be obstructed. As a result, temperature or humidity variations may occur inside the unit.

[0126] After the first operation is completed, the control device 19 moves the movable racks so that at least three racks do not face any part of the exhaust port X. As a result, the control device 19 can reduce the possibility of temperature or humidity unevenness, and create an environment more suitable for the cultivation of plants P inside I1, etc.

[0127] <Second Embodiment> (1) Overall structure The overall configuration of the equipment 2 according to the second embodiment will be described below. Hereinafter, similarities between the first and second embodiments will be omitted, and the differences between the first and second embodiments will be the focus of the description. Figure 23 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of equipment 2. Equipment 2 mainly comprises a plant factory 1000 and a control device 29.

[0128] (1-1) Plant factory A rack system 20 is mainly installed inside the plant factory 1000 I1. Details of the rack system 20 will be described later. The configuration of the plant factory 1000 is the same as in the first embodiment, except for the positions of the supply port O and exhaust port X, so a description will be omitted.

[0129] A supply opening O is provided in the left wall 12. The supply opening O may also be provided in the floor F, the front wall 11, the right wall 13, the rear wall 14, or the ceiling 15. Multiple supply openings O may be provided.

[0130] An exhaust vent X is provided on the right side wall 13. The exhaust vent X may also be provided on the floor F, the front wall 11, the left side wall 12, the rear wall 14, or the ceiling 15. Multiple exhaust vents X may be provided.

[0131] (1-2) Control device The control unit 29 primarily controls the rack system 20. The control unit 29 connects to the rack system 20 via wired or wireless connection. Details of the control unit 29 will be described later.

[0132] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Rack System The detailed configuration of the rack system 20 is described below. The rack system 20 mainly consists of rack 200A, rack 200B, rack 200C, rack 200D, first guide rail 171C, first guide rail 171D, second guide rail 172A, and second guide rail 172B. Note that the number of racks in the rack system 20 may be three or more, but is not limited to four.

[0133] The structure of rack 200A and the structure of rack 200D are approximately symmetric with respect to the planes extending in the Y and Z directions. The structure of rack 200B and the structure of rack 200C are the same. The function of rack 200A and the function of rack 200D are the same. The function of rack 200B and the function of rack 200C are the same. The structure and function of rack 200A and rack 200B will be described below.

[0134] (2-1-1) Rack 200A Figure 24 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 200A. Rack 200A has a plurality of platforms S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. For example, rack 200A has six platforms S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. Plants P are cultivated on each platform S. Plants P are planted in soil (not shown) on rack 200A or immersed in nutrient solution (not shown) on rack 200A. Rack 200A may be provided with a lighting device (not shown) that serves as a light source for the plants P. Rack 200A is not a movable rack.

[0135] (2-1-2) Rack 200B Figure 25 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 200B. Rack 200B has a plurality of stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. For example, rack 200B has six stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. Plants P are cultivated on each stand S. Plants P are planted in soil (not shown) on rack 200B or immersed in nutrient solution (not shown) on rack 200B. Rack 200B may be provided with a lighting device (not shown) that serves as a light source for plants P.

[0136] Rack 200B slides guided by the first guide rails 171C and 171D, and the second guide rails 172A and 172B. This causes rack 200B to move approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Rack 200B is a movable rack.

[0137] The depth of rack 200B is the value obtained by multiplying the depth from which the first operation can be performed from one side (front wall 11 side or rear wall 14 side) by a number between 1 and 2, but is not limited to this. The depth of rack 200B is longer than the depths of racks 200A and rack 200D. Rack 200B requires passages A on both the front and rear sides of rack 200B. In other words, rack 200B is a rack that requires passages A from both the front wall 11 side and the rear wall 14 side. Rack 200B is the third rack. The third rack is a rack that requires passages A from both the front wall 11 side and the rear wall 14 side.

[0138] (2-1-3) Various forms of rack systems Figure 26 is a front view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. Figure 27 is a rear view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. Figure 28 is a left side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. Figure 29 is a right side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. Figure 30 is a top view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20. Figure 31 is a schematic configuration diagram showing the configuration of equipment 2 excluding the racks.

[0139] Rack 200A is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 200A is the rack that is located at the shortest distance in the direction approximately perpendicular to the rear wall 14. Rack 200A is elongated in the direction approximately horizontal to the extension of the front wall 11, due to racks 200B and 200C.

[0140] Aisle A exists in front of rack 200A. Rack 200A is a rack that has a reserved aisle A. Rack 200A is the second rack.

[0141] Rack 200B is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The direction of movement of rack 200B is approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Therefore, even when rack 200B is moved, it remains approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 200B is shorter in the approximately horizontal direction in which the front wall 11 extends due to racks 200A and 200D.

[0142] There is no aisle A in front of rack 200B. There is an aisle A behind rack 200B. Rack 200B requires aisles A on both sides, but only aisle A on one side (the side behind 200B) is available.

[0143] Rack 200C is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The direction of movement of rack 200C is approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Therefore, even when rack 200C is moved, it remains approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 200C is shorter in the approximately horizontal direction in which the front wall 11 extends due to racks 200A and 200D.

[0144] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 200C. Rack 200C is the first rack.

[0145] Rack 200D is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. Rack 200D is the rack that is located at the shortest distance in the direction approximately perpendicular to the front wall 11. Rack 200D is elongated in the direction approximately horizontal to the front wall 11, due to the presence of racks 200B and 200C.

[0146] There is no aisle A in front of or behind rack 200D. Rack 200D is the first rack.

[0147] The first guide rail 171C and the first guide rail 171D are fixed to the floor F. Alternatively, the first guide rail 171C and the first guide rail 171D may be fixed to the recessed portion of the concave shape of the floor F. In this case, even if the first guide rail 171C and the first guide rail 171D are present on the floor F, it is less likely that a step will occur in the floor F.

[0148] The first guide rails 171C and 171D extend substantially perpendicular to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The first guide rails 171C and 171D are installed to guide the movable racks (rack 200B and rack 200D).

[0149] The distance between rack 200A and rack 200B is greater than or equal to the depth of aisle A. The distance between rack 200B and rack 200C is approximately zero, but is not limited to this. The distance between rack 200C and rack 200D is approximately zero, but is not limited to this.

[0150] The second guide rails 172A and 172B are fixed to the ceiling 15. The second guide rails 172A and 172B extend substantially perpendicular to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. The second guide rails 172A and 172B are installed to guide the movable racks (rack 200B, rack 200D).

[0151] Racks 200A, 200B, 200C, and 200D do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. None of the racks face at least a portion of the area of ​​supply port O.

[0152] Racks 200A, 200B, and 200D do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Rack 200C faces the entire area of ​​exhaust port X.

[0153] A different configuration of the rack system 20 from that shown in Figure 23 will be described. Figure 32 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of equipment 2. Figure 33 is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 20.

[0154] No aisle A is secured for any of the racks. All racks are first racks. The distance between rack 200A and rack 200B is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 200B and rack 200C is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 200C and rack 200D is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value.

[0155] Racks 200A, 200C, and 200D do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 200B faces a portion of supply port O. None of the racks face at least a portion of supply port O.

[0156] Racks 200A, 200B, and 200D do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Rack 200C faces a portion of exhaust port X. All racks do not face at least a portion of exhaust port X.

[0157] (2-2) Control device The detailed configuration of the control device 29 will now be described. Figure 34 is a functional block diagram of the control device 29. The control device 29 mainly comprises a reception unit 291 and a movement control unit 292.

[0158] (2-2-1) Reception Department The reception unit 291 receives work information and completion information from a person or device via an input device (not shown). The reception unit 291 also receives purchase orders. A purchase order is information indicating the location of the plant P to be purchased. For example, the reception unit 291 receives purchase orders from a terminal. Examples of terminals include, but are not limited to, mobile terminals (smartphones, mobile devices, tablet devices, laptops, wearable devices, etc.), desktop personal computers, touch panels, and POS (Point of Sales) terminals.

[0159] Furthermore, the reception unit 291 may receive at least one of the following from a server or cloud via the network: work information, completion information, and purchase orders.

[0160] (2-2-2) Mobile Control Unit The movement control unit 292 controls racks 200B and 200C to move based on work information. The movement control unit 292 also controls all racks to ensure that there is space between them based on completion information. Furthermore, the movement control unit 292 controls the system to secure aisle A for purchase orders based on those orders.

[0161] When work information is received, the movement control unit 292 controls racks 200B and 200C so that passage A related to the work information is secured.

[0162] When termination information is received, the movement control unit 292 moves racks 200B and 200C so that the configuration of the rack system 20 shown in Figure 32 is realized.

[0163] When a purchase order is received, the movement control unit 292 controls racks 200B and 200C so that aisle A of the rack related to the purchase order is secured.

[0164] (3) Variant Regarding the modified version of the second embodiment, we will omit explanations of points that are the same as those of the second embodiment and focus on explaining the differences from the second embodiment.

[0165] Facility 2 may include, instead of the plant factory 1000, a greenhouse 2000, a mushroom cultivation facility 3000, or a warehouse 4000. Rack systems 20 are mainly installed inside the greenhouse 2000, the mushroom cultivation facility 3000, and the warehouse 4000.

[0166] <Third Embodiment> (1) Overall structure The overall configuration of the equipment 3 according to the third embodiment will be described below. Hereinafter, similarities between the first and third embodiments will be omitted, and the differences between the first and third embodiments will be the focus of the description. Figure 35 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of equipment 3. Equipment 3 mainly comprises a plant factory 1000 and a control device 39.

[0167] (1-1) Plant factory A rack system 30 is mainly installed inside the plant factory 1000 I1. Details of the rack system 30 will be described later. The configuration of the plant factory 1000 is the same as in the first embodiment, except for the positions of the supply port O and exhaust port X, so a description will be omitted.

[0168] A supply opening O is provided in the left wall 12. The supply opening O may also be provided in the floor F, the front wall 11, the right wall 13, the rear wall 14, or the ceiling 15. Multiple supply openings O may be provided.

[0169] An exhaust vent X is provided on the right side wall 13. The exhaust vent X may also be provided on the floor F, the front wall 11, the left side wall 12, the rear wall 14, or the ceiling 15. Multiple exhaust vents X may be provided.

[0170] (1-3) Control device The control device 39 primarily controls the rack system 30. The control device 39 connects to the rack system 30 via wired or wireless connection. Details of the control device 39 will be described later.

[0171] (2) Detailed configuration (2-1) Rack System The detailed configuration of rack system 30 is described below. Rack system 30 mainly consists of racks 300A, 300B, 300C, and 300D. Note that the number of racks in rack system 30 does not need to be more than three, but is not limited to four.

[0172] The structure of rack 300A and the structure of rack 300D are approximately symmetrical with respect to the planes extending in the Y and Z directions. The structure of rack 300B and the structure of rack 300C are the same. The function of rack 300A and the function of rack 300D are the same. The function of rack 300B and the function of rack 300C are the same. The structure and function of rack 300A and rack 300B will be described below.

[0173] (2-1-1) Rack 300A Figure 36 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 300A. Rack 300A has a plurality of stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. For example, rack 300A has six stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. Plants P are cultivated on each stand S. Plants P are planted in soil (not shown) on rack 300A or immersed in nutrient solution (not shown) on rack 300A. Rack 300A may be provided with lighting devices (not shown) that serve as a light source for plants P. Rack 300A is not a movable rack.

[0174] (2-1-2) Rack 300B Figure 37 is a perspective view showing the detailed configuration of rack 300B. Rack 300B has a plurality of stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. For example, rack 300B has six stands S arranged substantially perpendicular to the floor F. Plants P are cultivated on each stand S. Plants P are planted in soil (not shown) on rack 300B or immersed in nutrient solution (not shown) on rack 300B. Rack 300B may be provided with a lighting device (not shown) that serves as a light source for the plants P.

[0175] Furthermore, rack 300B is equipped with the following wheels: first wheel 181A, first wheel 181B, first wheel 181C, first wheel 181D, second wheel 182A, second wheel 182B, second wheel 182C, and second wheel 182D. The first wheel 181A, first wheel 181B, first wheel 181C, and first wheel 181D are wheels that come into contact with the floor F. The second wheel 182A, second wheel 182B, second wheel 182C, and second wheel 182D are wheels that come into contact with the ceiling 15.

[0176] Rack 300B moves as its wheels rotate. Rack 300B is a movable rack. Note that the number of wheels attached to Rack 300B is not limited to the example above.

[0177] (2-1-3) Various forms of rack systems Figure 38 is a front view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. Figure 39 is a rear view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. Figure 40 is a left side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. Figure 41 is a right side view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30. Figure 42 is a top view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30.

[0178] Rack 300A is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. There is a passage A in front of rack 300A. Rack 300A is the second rack. Rack 300B is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. There is a passage A behind rack 300B. Rack 300B is the second rack. Rack 300C is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. There is no passage A secured in front of rack 300C. Rack 300C is the first rack. Rack 300D is approximately parallel to the front wall 11 and the rear wall 14. There is no passage A secured in front of rack 300D. Rack 300D is the first rack.

[0179] The distance between rack 300A and rack 300B is greater than or equal to the depth of aisle A. The distance between rack 300B and rack 300C is approximately zero, but is not limited to this. The distance between rack 300C and rack 300D is approximately zero, but is not limited to this.

[0180] Racks 300A, 300B, 300C, and 300D do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Passage A faces a portion of the area of ​​supply port O. None of the racks face at least a portion of the area of ​​supply port O.

[0181] Racks 300A, 300B, and 300D do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Rack 300C faces the entire area of ​​exhaust port X.

[0182] A different configuration of the rack system 30 from that shown in Figure 35 will now be described. Figure 43 is a perspective view showing the overall configuration of the equipment 3. Figure 44 is a plan view showing the detailed configuration of the rack system 30.

[0183] No aisle A is secured for any of the racks. All racks are first racks. The distance between rack 300A and rack 300B is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 300B and rack 300C is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 300C and rack 300D is between 10cm and 25cm, but is not limited to this value.

[0184] The distance between rack 300B and the left wall 12 is between 10 cm and 50 cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 300B and the right wall 13 is between 10 cm and 50 cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 300C and the left wall 12 is between 10 cm and 50 cm, but is not limited to this value. The distance between rack 300C and the right wall 13 is between 10 cm and 50 cm, but is not limited to this value.

[0185] Racks 300A, 300C, and 300D do not face the entire area of ​​supply port O. Rack 300B faces a portion of supply port O. None of the racks face at least a portion of supply port O.

[0186] Racks 300A, 300B, and 300D do not face the entire area of ​​exhaust port X. Rack 300C faces a portion of exhaust port X. All racks do not face at least a portion of exhaust port X.

[0187] (2-2) Control device The detailed configuration of the control device 39 will now be described. Figure 45 is a functional block diagram of the control device 39. The control device 39 mainly comprises a reception unit 391 and a movement control unit 392.

[0188] (2-2-1) Reception Department The reception unit 391 receives work information, start information, and end information from a person or device via an input device (not shown). The start information includes the start time, which is the time when the first work begins, and information indicating the rack to which the first work is to be performed. The reception unit 391 records the received start information in a storage device (not shown).

[0189] The reception unit 391 may receive at least one of the following from a server or cloud via the network: work information, completion information, and start information. The start information may include information that associates the start time with at least one of the following: year, month, day, day, and day of the week.

[0190] (2-2-3) Mobile Control Unit The movement control unit 392 controls racks 300B and 300C to move based on work information. Before the start time, the movement control unit 392 controls to secure passage A for the rack that is the target of the first work. Based on completion information, the movement control unit 392 controls to create a gap between racks and other racks. Based on completion information, the movement control unit 392 controls to create a gap between racks and the left wall 12 and the right wall 13.

[0191] The movement control unit 392 identifies the start time and the rack to be operated on based on the start information. Before the start time, the movement control unit 392 controls racks 300B and 300C to move in order to secure passage A to the rack to be operated on. An example of a time before the start time is, but is not limited to, 30 seconds to 5 minutes before the start time.

[0192] When termination information is received, the movement control unit 392 controls the rack system 30 to realize the configuration shown in Figure 43. For example, in the configuration shown in Figure 35, the movement control unit 392 moves racks 300B and 300C in approximately the negative X and negative Z directions, respectively. This creates a gap between all racks and other racks. Also, a gap is created between all racks and the left wall 12 and the right wall 13.

[0193] (3) Variant Regarding the modified version of the third embodiment, we will omit explanations of points that are the same as those of the third embodiment and focus on explaining the differences from the third embodiment.

[0194] Facility 3 may include, instead of the plant factory 1000, a greenhouse 2000, a mushroom cultivation facility 3000, or a warehouse 4000. Rack systems 30 are mainly installed inside the greenhouse 2000, the mushroom cultivation facility 3000, and the warehouse 4000.

[0195] (4) Features After the first operation is completed, the movement control unit 392 further controls the movement of the movable racks so that a gap is created between at least one of the movable racks and the wall of the other structure.

[0196] Therefore, the control device 39 can reduce the possibility of temperature or humidity unevenness, and create an environment more suitable for the cultivation of plants P, etc.

[0197] <Hardware Configuration> An example of a hardware configuration for realizing the control devices (control device 19, control device 29, control device 39) in each of the above-described embodiments (first embodiment, second embodiment, third embodiment) will be explained. Figure 46 is a diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration in each embodiment.

[0198] Each embodiment of the control device (control device 19, control device 29, control device 39) includes a computer 9 equipped with a processor 91, memory 92, storage / playback device 93, communication interface 94, and input / output interface 95.

[0199] The processor 91 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The memory 92 is a recording medium such as RAM (Random Access Memory) or ROM (Read Only Memory). The storage / playback device 93 is a device for storing programs, data, etc., on external media such as CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), and flash memory, and for playing back programs, data, etc., from external media. The communication interface 94 is an interface for communication between the computer 9 and other devices via communication lines such as the Internet or a dedicated communication line. The IO interface 95 is an interface for inputting source programs and for inputting and outputting information, etc., between the computer 9 and other devices.

[0200] <Computer Program> A program for realizing all or part of the functions of the control devices (control device 19, control device 29, control device 39) in each of the above embodiments may be stored in a computer-readable recording medium, and the processing of each part may be performed by having a computer system read and execute the program stored in this recording medium.

[0201] A computer system includes hardware such as the operating system (OS) and peripheral devices. Furthermore, if the computer system utilizes the World Wide Web (WWW) system, it also includes the homepage delivery environment (or display environment).

[0202] Computer-readable recording media include portable media such as flexible disks, magneto-optical disks, ROMs, and CD-ROMs, as well as storage devices such as hard disks built into computer systems. Computer-readable recording media also include those that dynamically hold programs for a short period of time, such as communication lines used when transmitting programs over networks such as the Internet or communication lines such as telephone lines. Computer-readable recording media also include those that hold programs for a fixed period of time, such as volatile memory inside computer systems that act as servers or clients when transmitting programs over networks such as the Internet or communication lines such as telephone lines.

[0203] For example, the above program may implement some of the functions described above, or it may implement the above functions in combination with a program already stored in the computer system.

[0204] While embodiments of this disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that various modifications to the form and details are possible without departing from the spirit and scope of this disclosure as described in the claims. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0205] 10 rack system 11 Wall 12 walls 13 Walls 14 Wall 15 Ceiling 19 Control device 20 rack system 29 Control device 30 rack system 39 Control device 100A rack 100B rack 100C Rack 100D Rack 100E Rack 192 Movement Control Unit 200A rack 200B rack 200C Rack 200D Rack 292 Movement Control Unit 300A rack 300B rack 300C Rack 300D Rack 392 Movement Control Unit A aisle F floor G product I1 internal I2 internal I3 internal I4 Internal M Mushroom O supply port P plant X Exhaust vent

Claims

1. The facility is equipped with three or more racks (100A, 100B, 100C, 100D, 100E, 200A, 200B, 200C, 200D, 300A, 300B, 300C, 300D) in which plants (P) or mushrooms (M) are cultivated or goods (G) are stored. The aforementioned rack is located inside other structures (I1, I2, I3, I4), Of the three or more racks mentioned above, at least one of them is a movable rack. Even if the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks remains in place. A passage (A) used when a first operation, which is an operation on any of the plants, mushrooms, or products, is performed. This is the first rack, which does not have a secured rack. As a result of the movement of the movable rack, one or more of the three or more racks are replaced by a second rack that provides a passage. In the rack system (10, 20, 30), after the first operation is completed, a movement control unit (192, 292, 392) controls the movement of the movable racks so that a gap is created between the racks in all three or more racks. A control device equipped with the following features.

2. When one or more of the first racks are changed into the second racks by the movement of the movable racks, one or more of the second racks are changed into the first racks. The control device according to claim 1.

3. At least one of the floor (F) of the other structure, the wall of the other structure, and the ceiling (15) of the other structure has an air supply port (O) for supplying air-conditioned air. The movement control unit further controls the movement of the movable racks after the first operation is completed, such that the three or more racks do not face at least a portion of the area of ​​the supply port. The control device according to claim 1.

4. At least one of the floor of the other structure, the wall of the other structure, and the ceiling of the other structure has an exhaust port (X) that exhausts air from the inside to the outside of the other structure. The movement control unit further controls the movement of the movable racks after the first operation is completed, such that the three or more racks do not face at least a portion of the area of ​​the exhaust port. The control device according to claim 3.

5. After the first operation is completed, the movement control unit further controls the movement of the movable racks so that a gap is created between at least one of the movable racks and the wall of the other structure. A control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.

6. It is equipped with three or more racks for cultivating plants or mushrooms, or for storing goods, The aforementioned rack is located inside another structure. Of the three or more racks mentioned above, at least one of them is a movable rack. Even if the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks remains in place. A passage used when a first operation, which is an operation on any of the aforementioned plants, mushrooms, or goods, is performed. This is the first rack, which does not have a secured rack. As a result of the movement of the movable rack, one or more of the three or more racks are replaced by a second rack that provides a passage. In a rack system, after the first operation is completed, a movement control step controls the movement of the movable racks so that a gap is created between the racks in all three or more racks. A control method having

7. A racking system comprising three or more racks for cultivating plants or mushrooms, or for storing goods, The aforementioned rack is located inside another structure. Of the three or more racks mentioned above, at least one of them is a movable rack. Even if the movable rack moves, at least one of the three or more racks remains in place. A passage used when a first operation, which is an operation on any of the aforementioned plants, mushrooms, or goods, is performed. This is the first rack, which does not have a secured rack. As a result of the movement of the movable rack, one or more of the three or more racks are replaced by the second racks that provide the passageway. After the first operation is completed, a movement control unit controls the movement of the movable racks so that a gap is created between each rack in all three or more racks. A rack system equipped with [specific features / features].

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