Method and apparatus for promoting plant cultivation

Abstract

The present invention provides a method and apparatus for promoting plant cultivation that can reduce the effort required for plant cultivation. [Solution] The method for promoting plant cultivation involves heating the rhizome by bringing a heating element heated to a predetermined temperature into contact with at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the rhizome of the plant, thereby reducing the function of the sieve portion in the rhizome, and then cultivating the plant.

Description

【Technical Field】 【0001】 The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for promoting plant cultivation. 【Background Art】 【0002】 Conventionally, for the purpose of improving the quality such as enhancing the coloring of fruit trees such as grapes, a technique of performing a treatment of annular bark peeling on the main trunk or main branches of the tree body (hereinafter referred to as annular bark peeling treatment) is known, and an annular bark peeling knife for the annular bark peeling treatment is also known. However, since the annular bark peeling treatment involves cutting and peeling the main trunk or main branches of the fruit tree in a circular shape, the work is complicated and there is concern about a decline in the tree vigor after the treatment. 【0003】 In the case of grapes, it is also known to improve the coloring by performing an annular bark peeling treatment on the branches that grow in the current year (hereinafter referred to as fruiting branches) to excise the sieve tissue. By making the object of the annular bark peeling treatment the fruiting branches, it is expected that the influence on the growth after the next year can be reduced. However, at present, the annular bark peeling treatment for all fruiting branches is complicated and requires a great deal of labor, so it has not been put into practical use. 【0004】 In addition to the conventional annular bark peeling treatment with an annular bark peeling knife, a technique (Heat girdling) of winding a constantan wire around the fruit stalk of a tomato and heating the constantan wire with an electric current to perform annular bark peeling has been disclosed (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 1). Also, a technique of heating the fruit stalk of a cucumber with a nichrome wire to perform annular bark peeling has been disclosed (see, for example, Non-Patent Document 2). 【Prior Art Documents】 【Non-Patent Documents】 【0005】 【Non-Patent Document 1】 Van de Wal et al, “Heat girdling does not affect xylem integrity: an in vivo magnetic resonance imaging study in the tomato peduncle”, (2017) New Phytolog 215, 558-568. [Non-Patent Document 2] Tazuke, “Relationships between growth in volume and respiration of Cucumber fruit after heat-girdling the peduncle”, J. Japan Soc. Hort. Sci. 62(1):135-142. 1993. [Overview of the Initiative] [Problems that the invention aims to solve] 【0006】 The techniques disclosed in the above-mentioned Non-Patent Documents 1 and 2 require considerable effort because the process of wrapping the constantan wire or nichrome wire around the fruit stalk is done manually. 【0007】 This invention has been made in consideration of these circumstances, and one of its objectives is to provide a method and apparatus for promoting plant cultivation that can reduce the effort required for plant cultivation. [Means for solving the problem] 【0008】 A method for promoting plant cultivation according to one aspect of the present invention involves heating the rhizome by bringing a heating element heated to a predetermined temperature into contact with at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the rhizome of the plant, thereby reducing the function of the sieve portion in the rhizome, and then cultivating the plant. 【0009】 Furthermore, in a method for promoting plant cultivation according to one aspect of the present invention, the heating unit may be configured to heat the rhizome in a ring shape over the entire circumference of the rhizome. 【0010】 Furthermore, in one aspect of the present invention, the method for promoting plant cultivation may be carried out by gripping the rhizome with the heating unit, thereby bringing the heating unit into contact with the rhizome. 【0011】 Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the method for promoting plant cultivation may be performed by first bringing the heating unit into contact with the rhizome and then heating the heating unit. 【0012】 Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the method for promoting plant cultivation may also involve bringing the heated heating element into contact with the rhizome. 【0013】 Furthermore, in one embodiment of the present invention, the method for promoting plant cultivation may be provided by bringing the heating element into contact with multiple locations on the rhizome that are spaced apart in the axial direction. 【0014】 The plant cultivation promotion device that solves the above problems comprises a heating element that is in contact with at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the rhizome of the plant, and a heat source that heats the heating element. 【0015】 Furthermore, the heating element may be configured to heat the rhizome in a ring-like manner around its entire circumference. 【0016】 Furthermore, the heating section may include an electric heating element attached to a tip member that comes into contact with the rhizome. 【0017】 Furthermore, the tip member may include a gripping member for gripping the rhizome portion. 【0018】 Furthermore, the device may be equipped with an opening / closing switching mechanism for opening and closing the gripping member. 【0019】 Furthermore, the heating unit may be an electric heating unit, and the heating source may include a power supply that is electrically connected to the electric heating unit and supplies power to the electric heating unit. 【0020】 Further, a plurality of heating parts may be provided so as to be respectively brought into contact with a plurality of locations spaced apart in the axial direction of the rhizome part. 【Advantages of the Invention】 【0021】 According to the present invention, the labor involved in plant cultivation can be reduced. 【Brief Description of the Drawings】 【0022】 [Figure 1] It is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 2] It is a front view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 3] It is a top view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 4] It is a view showing an example of the usage state of the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 5] It is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of the process of the plant cultivation method. [Figure 6] It is a view showing an example of the result branch W subjected to the annular heating sieve part destruction treatment by the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment. [Figure 7] It is a view showing a partial cross-section of the result branch W before and after the annular heating sieve part destruction treatment. [Figure 8] It is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment. [Figure 9] It is a top view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment. [Figure 10] It is a view showing an example of the result branch W subjected to the annular heating sieve part destruction treatment by the cultivation promotion device of the second embodiment. [Figure 11] It is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 3 of the third embodiment. [Figure 12] It is a view showing an example of the usage state of the cultivation promotion device 3 of the third embodiment. [Figure 13] It is a color chart value showing an example of the result of an experiment for confirming the effect of quality improvement. [Figure 14] This is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 4 of the fourth embodiment. [Figure 15] This diagram illustrates an example of the flow of the annular heating sieve section destruction process. [Figure 16] This figure shows an example of a result branch W that has undergone annular heating and sieve destruction treatment. [Modes for carrying out the invention] 【0023】 The plant cultivation promotion method and apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. 【0024】 Plants whose cultivation is promoted by the plant cultivation promotion method of the embodiment include, for example, fruit trees such as grapes, persimmons, kiwifruit, figs, Japanese pears, European pears, peaches, plums, chestnuts, apricots, apples, cherries, blueberries, raspberries, mangoes, passion fruit, lychees, pineapples, almonds, and citrus fruits; vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, eggplants, bell peppers, paprika, chili peppers, okra, soybeans, broad beans, asparagus, pumpkins, melons, watermelons, strawberries, and raspberries; ornamental flowering trees; trees for timber; and ornamental plants. In the plant cultivation promotion method of the embodiment, for example, the plant is treated by locally contacting the heating element with the rhizome of these plants and heating it in a ring shape to reduce the function of the sieve in the rhizome, and then the plant is cultivated. Note that "ring" is a concept that includes not only a complete "ring" but also a "nearly ring" that is close to a "ring". Treatments that reduce the function of the sieve include, for example, treatments that individually reduce the function or kill the sieve tubes, sieve fibers, sieve parenchyma, and companion cells contained in the sieve, or treatments that reduce or eliminate the role of the sieve in transporting and storing assimilated substances (assimilation products). In this embodiment, the rhizome is heated so as not to reduce the function of the xylem (vessels) while reducing the function of the sieve. Hereinafter, the treatment that reduces the function of the sieve will be referred to as "ring-type heating sieve destruction treatment". 【0025】 Examples of rhizome parts that can be subjected to the annular heating sieve destruction treatment include branches such as fruiting branches, but the rhizome part may also be the trunk, or any other part of the plant, such as the stem, fruit stalk, or root. The plant cultivation promotion method in the embodiment is carried out using a cultivation promotion device, for example, but it may also be carried out without using a cultivation promotion device. In each of the following embodiments, an example will be described in which the rhizome part to be subjected to the annular heating sieve destruction treatment is a fruiting branch, and the cultivation promotion method is carried out using different cultivation promotion devices. 【0026】 (First embodiment) Figure 1 is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 2 is a front view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figure 3 is a top view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 1 according to the first embodiment. Figures 1 to 3 show the coordinate axes of the Cartesian coordinate system XYZ. The X-axis is the axis in the depth direction (front-to-back direction) of the cultivation promotion device 1, parallel to the horizontal plane. The Y-axis is the axis in the lateral direction (left-to-right direction) of the cultivation promotion device 1, parallel to the horizontal plane. The Z-axis is the axis in the height direction of the cultivation promotion device 1, perpendicular to the horizontal plane (XY plane). 【0027】 The cultivation acceleration device 1 comprises, for example, a handle portion 11, a gripping portion 12, a heating portion 13, a battery 14, an on / off switching portion 15, a switch 16, and a temperature control portion 17. The cultivation acceleration device 1 in this embodiment may not include some of the above components (for example, the switch 16 and the temperature control portion 17), nor may it include other components. Furthermore, the shape, size, and position of each component of the cultivation acceleration device 1 are not limited to the illustrated examples. The cultivation acceleration device 1 is used, for example, by a farm worker (hereinafter referred to as the user) holding it in their hand. The handle portion 11 has a shape that is easy for the user to grip, and for example, has a cylindrical outer shape. The handle portion 11 may have three or four grooves formed therein for the user's fingers to rest on. 【0028】 A gripping portion (tip member) 12 is attached to the upper end of the handle portion 11. The gripping portion 12 is located at the tip of the cultivation promotion device 1. The gripping portion 12 comprises, for example, a right head 12R and a left head 12L. The right head 12R and the left head 12L are made of, for example, resin. The right head 12R and the left head 12L may be formed of a material other than resin, such as metal. The base ends (ends on the handle portion 11 side) of the right head 12R and the left head 12L are connected via a pin 12C. The right head 12R and the left head 12L are pivotable in directions symmetrical to each other around the pin 12C. 【0029】 The gripping part 12 opens and closes as the right head 12R and the left head 12L swing symmetrically. When the gripping part 12 opens, it becomes possible to insert the fruiting branch W of the plant from the tip side of the gripping part 12. After the fruiting branch W is inserted into the open gripping part 12, the gripping part 12 closes, causing the gripping part 12 to grip the fruiting branch W. The gripping part 12 releases the fruiting branch W by opening it while it is gripping it. 【0030】 When the gripping portion 12 is closed by the symmetrical swinging of the right head 12R and left head 12L of the open gripping portion 12, the resulting branch W inserted into the gripping portion 12 is gripped between the right head 12R and the left head 12L. The left inner surface of the right head 12R and the right inner surface of the left head 12L, when viewed from the front, are curved. Of these, the right head 12R curves to the right as it goes upwards in the lower part and to the left as it goes upwards in the upper part. The left head 12L curves to the left as it goes upwards in the lower part and to the right as it goes upwards in the upper part. Thus, the right head 12R and the left head 12L are curved in directions that are, so to speak, opposite to each other. When the gripping portion 12 is closed, for example, circular through holes are formed on the inner surfaces of the right head 12R and the left head 12L. Therefore, after placing the result branch W inside the gripping part 12, the gripping part 12 can grip or release the result branch W simply by opening and closing. 【0031】 The right head 12R and the left head 12L intersect with their upper ends offset in the X-axis direction, and the right head 12R and the left head 12L can swing without their upper ends touching each other. Therefore, the gripping portion 12 can adjust the width between the right head 12R and the left head 12L over a wide range, making it easier to grip various result branches W of different thicknesses while the heating portion 13 is in contact with them. 【0032】 The gripping portion 12 is provided with an electric heating portion (heating section) 13. The electric heating portion 13 comprises a right electric heating portion 13R and a left electric heating portion 13L. The right electric heating portion 13R is provided along the left inner surface of the right head 12R. The left electric heating portion 13L is provided along the right inner surface of the left head 12L. Both the left inner surface of the right head 12R and the right inner surface of the left head 12L are strip-shaped (curved). The right electric heating portion 13R and the left electric heating portion 13L are provided with a certain width. 【0033】 The left inner surface of the right head 12R and the right inner surface of the left head 12L may be linear, for example, a sharp blade shape that cuts into the fruiting branch W, or a serrated shape. The right heating section 13R and the left heating section 13L may be linear heating wires, or they may be mesh-like or plate-like. The heating wire that forms the heating section 13 may be, for example, nichrome wire or constantan wire. The heating section 13 may be formed from other materials, for example, iron, nickel, chromium, platinum, tungsten, or alloys thereof. 【0034】 The fruiting branch W, held in the gripping portion 12, contacts the right heating portion 13R and the left heating portion 13L, respectively, provided on the right head 12R and left head 12L of the gripping portion 12, along its entire circumference. Therefore, the process of bringing the heating portion (here, the heating portion 13) into contact with the fruiting branch W can be simplified. Various methods can be considered for bringing the heating portion 13 into contact with the fruiting branch W. For example, the heating portion 13 may be brought into contact with the fruiting branch W by pressing it against the fruiting branch W, such as by closing the gripping portion 12, or the heating portion 13 may be positioned next to the fruiting branch W to bring it into contact. 【0035】 In the first embodiment, the gripping portion 12 closes to grip the fruiting branch W, causing the heating portion 13, which is located inside the gripping portion 12, to move toward the fruiting branch W or to press the gripping portion 12 against the fruiting branch W to bring it into contact. When the gripping portion 12 is gripping the fruiting branch W, the heating portion 13 makes annular contact with the entire circumference of the fruiting branch W and heats the fruiting branch W. The heating portion 13 may not make contact with the entire circumference of the fruiting branch W, but rather with at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the fruiting branch W to locally annularly heat and destroy the sieve portion of the fruiting branch W. 【0036】 The handle section 11 has a built-in battery (heat source, power supply) 14. When a switch 16 located at the bottom of the handle section 11 is turned ON, the battery 14 supplies current to the heating section 13, causing it to heat up. When the switch 16 is turned OFF, the battery 14 stops supplying current to the heating section 13. When the current supply is stopped, the heating section 13 stops heating the right head 12R and the left head 12L. 【0037】 The switch 16 may be located, for example, at a position other than the bottom of the handle portion 11, and in a position that can be operated by a user holding the cultivation promotion device 1. The temperature of the heating element 13, which is heated by the current supplied from the battery 14, is set to a temperature sufficient to destroy the annular heating sieve portion of the plant's fruiting branches W, for example, in the range of 300°C to 500°C. 【0038】 When the gripping part 12 grips the fruiting branch W, the heating part 13 is heated by the current supplied from the battery 14, thereby locally destroying the annular heating sieve on the fruiting branch W. The user can, for example, turn on the switch 16 to heat the heating part 13 before gripping the fruiting branch W with the gripping part 12. Alternatively, the user can turn off the switch 16 when gripping the fruiting branch W with the gripping part 12, and then turn on the switch 16 after gripping the fruiting branch W with the gripping part 12 to supply current to the battery 14 and heat the heating part 13. The switch 16 is located in a position that can be operated by the user who has the cultivation promotion device 1, so the user performing the annular heating sieve destruction process can operate it themselves. 【0039】 An opening / closing switch 15 is provided on the upper left side of the handle portion 11. The opening / closing switch 15 is positioned, for example, where a user's fingers can grip the handle portion 11. When the user is not operating (pulling) the opening / closing switch 15, the grip portion 12 is closed. When the user operates (pulls) the opening / closing switch 15, the grip portion 12 opens, allowing the result branch W to be inserted into the grip portion 12. Subsequently, when the user who was operating the opening / closing switch 15 releases their fingers from the opening / closing switch 15, the grip portion 12 closes and grips the result branch W. Alternatively, the grip portion 12 may be open when the opening / closing switch 15 is not being operated, and the grip portion 12 may be closed when the user operates the opening / closing switch 15. 【0040】 The gripping portion 12 has a built-in spring that biases it in the closing direction. When the user is not operating the opening / closing switch 15, the gripping portion 12 is closed due to the biasing force of the spring. The gripping portion 12 opens when the user operates the opening / closing switch 15 so that a force greater than the biasing force of the spring is applied to the gripping portion 12. Then, when the user releases their finger from the opening / closing switch 15, the gripping portion 12 closes due to the biasing force of the spring. The gripping portion 12 does not necessarily have a built-in spring, and the gripping portion 12 may open and close in accordance with the operation of the opening / closing switch 15 when the user operates the opening / closing switch 15. In this case, the user's operation causes the electric heating portion 13 provided on the gripping portion 12 to come into contact with or be pressed against the result branch W. 【0041】 Figure 4 shows an example of the usage state of the cultivation promotion device 1 according to the first embodiment. Before operating the opening / closing switch 15, the gripping part 12 is closed. When the user operates the opening / closing switch 15, the gripping part 12 opens wide without the tips of the right head 12R and the left head 12L intersecting, as shown in the left diagram of Figure 4. Therefore, even large-diameter fruiting branches W can be inserted between the right head 12R and the left head 12L. 【0042】 In this state, the user moves the cultivation promotion device 1, for example, from below the fruiting branch W upwards, and inserts the fruiting branch W into the open gripping section 12. Subsequently, when the user releases their finger from the opening / closing switch 15, the gripping section 12 closes, and eventually, as shown in the right diagram of Figure 4, the left inner surface of the right head 12R and the right inner surface of the left head 12L of the gripping section 12 come into contact with the fruiting branch W. In this state, the gripping section 12 grips the fruiting branch W due to the biasing force of the spring. With the gripping section 12 gripping the fruiting branch W, the heating section 13 is heated, and the annular heating sieve section destruction process is performed. After the annular heating sieve section destruction process is performed, the user operates the opening / closing switch 15, which opens the gripping section 12 and releases the fruiting branch W. 【0043】 A temperature control unit 17 is provided below the opening / closing switch 15 in the handle unit 11. The temperature control unit 17 is equipped with a dial-type knob. The knob of the temperature control unit 17 is rotatable around the Y axis. By rotating the knob of the temperature control unit 17, the heating temperature of the heating unit 13 that heats the fruiting branch W can be adjusted and set. The temperatures of the right heating unit 13R and the left heating unit 13L are set to the same temperature, but the temperatures of the right heating unit 13R and the left heating unit 13L may be set individually. By providing the temperature control unit 17, a more appropriate temperature can be set depending on the type of plant and the position of the fruiting branch W being heated. Note that the temperature control unit 17 is not limited to a dial type; for example, it may be a sliding mechanism or a mechanism for inputting numerical values ​​using buttons, etc. 【0044】 Next, a method for promoting plant cultivation using the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment will be described. Figure 5 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing flow of the plant cultivation method. 【0045】 To perform the plant cultivation promotion method, the user first grasps the handle 11 (step S101) and holds the cultivation promotion device 1 in their hand. Next, the user turns on the switch 16 provided on the cultivation promotion device 1 (step S103) and supplies current from the battery 14 to heat the heating element 13 to a predetermined temperature suitable for the annular heating sieve destruction process. The part of the fruiting branch W to be heated by the cultivation promotion device 1 is, for example, the internode located directly below the fruit. The user may hold the cultivation promotion device 1 after turning on the switch 16 and heating the heating element 13. The heating temperature of the heating element 13 is pre-adjusted and set by the temperature control unit 17, but the user may adjust the heating temperature of the heating element 13 by operating the temperature control unit 17 during or before / after the annular heating sieve destruction process. 【0046】 Next, the user places their finger on the opening / closing switch 15 and operates the opening / closing switch 15 (step S105). The gripping part 12 opens as the user operates the opening / closing switch 15. Once the gripping part 12 is open, the user moves the cultivation promotion device 1 toward the fruiting branch W at the position where the annular heating sieve part destruction process is performed on the fruiting branch W, and inserts the fruiting branch W into the inside of the gripping part 12 through the opening at the tip of the opening gripping part 12 (step S107). 【0047】 Next, when the user releases their finger from the opening / closing switch 15 that they are operating (step S109), the gripping part 12 closes. At this time, the result branch W is inserted into the gripping part 12, and the gripping part 12 is biased in the closing direction by a spring, so when the user releases their finger from the opening / closing switch 15, the gripping part 12 closes and grips the result branch W (step S111). 【0048】 Next, the gripping part 12 maintains its grip on the fruiting branch W for a certain period of time, for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds (step S113). While the gripping part 12 grips the fruiting branch W, the heating part 13 heats the fruiting branch W, thereby causing the cultivation promotion device 1 to perform the annular heating sieve destruction process on the fruiting branch W. The gripping part 12 continues to grip the fruiting branch W due to the biasing force of the spring. Therefore, the user can perform the annular heating sieve destruction process without having to perform tasks such as continuously pulling the opening / closing switch part 15, thus reducing the burden on the user. 【0049】 After a certain period of time has elapsed and the annular heated sieve section destruction process has been performed, the gripping section 12 is opened by the user operating the opening / closing switching section 15 (step S115), and the resulting branch W that was being gripped is released. Next, the user pulls the gripping section 12 out of the resulting branch W and discharges the resulting branch W from the gripping section 12 (step S117). Subsequently, the user decides whether or not to perform the annular heated sieve section destruction process on the remaining part of the resulting branch W (step S119). 【0050】 If the user decides to perform the annular heating sieve destruction treatment on another part of the fruiting branch W, the process returns to step S107. Subsequently, the user moves the cultivation promotion device 1 to the part of the fruiting branch W to be subjected to the annular heating sieve destruction treatment and inserts the fruiting branch W into the open gripping part 12 (step S107). Thereafter, the process from steps S107 to S119 is repeated. 【0051】 If it is determined that other parts of the fruiting branch W should not be subjected to the annular heating sieve destruction treatment, the user releases their finger from the opening / closing switch 15, and the gripping part 12 closes (step S121). Then, the user turns off the switch 16 to stop heating the heating part 13 (step S123). If there is a delay between step S119 and step S107 when other parts of the fruiting branch W are inserted into the gripping part, the user may turn off the switch 16 to return the process to step S103, wait for the time to pass, and then restart the flow. In this way, the cultivation promotion method is completed. 【0052】 Figure 6 shows an example of a fruiting branch W that has undergone annular heating and sieve destruction treatment by the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment. When the fruiting branch W shown on the left side of Figure 6 is subjected to annular heating and sieve destruction treatment by the cultivation promotion device 1, the heated portion F shown on the right side of Figure 6 is formed. In the heated portion F, the sieve portion of the fruiting branch W is destroyed by the annular heating and sieve destruction treatment. In the fruiting branch W where the sieve portion has been destroyed, assimilation products from the tip side of the heated portion F accumulate in the fruit, improving the quality of the fruit, such as its coloration. 【0053】 Figure 7 shows a cross-section of a portion of a fruiting branch W before and after annular heat sieve destruction treatment. In the fruiting branch W1 shown in the upper part of Figure 7 before annular heat sieve destruction treatment, the sieve portion FP and xylem TP including the xylem portion are formed. In contrast, in the fruiting branch W2 shown in the lower part of Figure 7 after annular heat sieve destruction treatment, the sieve portion FP is destroyed, while the xylem portion TP remains intact. Thus, by annular heat sieve destruction treatment, the sieve portion can be destroyed without destroying the xylem portion, resulting in effects such as improved fruit coloration and other quality improvements. 【0054】 In the cultivation promotion method of the first embodiment, the cultivation promotion device 1 is used to locally contact the fruiting branch W with the gripping part 12 by gripping the fruiting branch W, thereby performing annular heating sieve destruction treatment. By locally performing annular heating sieve destruction treatment on the fruiting branch W, the sieve portion in the fruiting branch W (rhizome portion) is destroyed. 【0055】 In the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment, the location of the fruiting branch W that is subjected to the annular heating sieve destruction treatment is, for example, the internode located directly below the fruit. Therefore, since the sieve is divided at the internode located directly below the fruit, it becomes easier to directly supply assimilation products from the tip of the fruiting branch W to the fruit, thereby improving the quality of the fruit, such as its coloration. Furthermore, since the heated part is closer to the tip, for example, the number of candidate pruning locations when pruning tree branches at the end of the season is widened, making it easier to prune at a location closer to the roots than the part that has undergone the annular heating sieve destruction treatment. Consequently, when cultivating fruit in the next season, it becomes easier to eliminate the part that has undergone the annular heating sieve destruction treatment. 【0056】 The user can easily move the cultivation promotion device 1, which is used for the annular heating sieve destruction process, to any desired position, and can grip or release the fruiting branch W with the gripping part 12 simply by operating the opening / closing switch 15. Therefore, the annular heating sieve destruction process can be performed at various positions on the fruiting branch W with simple operation. Thus, the effort required for plant cultivation can be reduced. In particular, while the above-mentioned Patent Document 1 required the effort of wrapping a constantan wire around the fruit stalk, in the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment, the gripping part 12 closes and the heating part 13 comes into contact with the fruiting branch W simply by the user operating the opening / closing switch 15. Therefore, even in comparison with the above-mentioned Patent Document 1, the effort required for plant cultivation can be reduced. 【0057】 Furthermore, conventional girdling treatments required the extra step of protecting the stripped area with vinyl tape after the treatment. In contrast, the girdling heat sieve destruction treatment using the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment can reduce the function of the sieve by destroying the sieve tissue while leaving the epidermis intact, thus eliminating the need for protection with vinyl tape. Consequently, the effort required for plant cultivation can be reduced accordingly. 【0058】 (Second embodiment) Next, a second embodiment will be described. Figure 8 is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment. Figure 9 is a top view showing an example of the cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment. The cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment differs from the first embodiment mainly in the shape of the gripping part. Hereinafter, functions and elements common to the cultivation promotion device 1 of the first embodiment will be denoted by the same reference numerals, and the cultivation promotion method and apparatus of the second embodiment will be described focusing on the differences from the first embodiment. 【0059】 The cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment differs from the gripping device 2 of the first embodiment in that it has a gripping section 22 comprising two gripping members instead of the gripping section 12. The gripping section 22 comprises, for example, a first gripping member 23 and a second gripping member 24. The first gripping member 23 comprises a first right head 23R and a first left head 23L, and the second gripping member 24 comprises a second right head 24R and a second left head 24L. 【0060】 The base ends of the first right head 23R and the first left head 23L are connected via a first pin 23C. The first right head 23R and the first left head 23L are pivotable in directions symmetrical to each other around the first pin 23C. The base ends of the second right head 24R and the second left head 24L are connected via a second pin 24C. The second right head 24R and the second left head 24L are pivotable in directions symmetrical to each other around the second pin 24C. 【0061】 The first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 are arranged side by side along the axial direction of the first pin 23C and the second pin 24C. The first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 have the same shape and operate simultaneously. The first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 are opened when the user operates the opening / closing switch 15 with their finger, and closed when the user releases their finger from the opening / closing switch 15 while it is being operated. 【0062】 The first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 are opened or closed simultaneously by the operation of the opening / closing switching unit 15, but they may also be opened or closed individually by the operation of the opening / closing switching unit 15. In this case, separate opening / closing switching units may be provided for the first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24. By opening and closing the first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 at different timings, the annular heating sieve destruction process at different positions on the fruiting branch W can be performed at different timings. In the cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment, the gripping unit 22, which has two gripping members, the first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24, brings the first heating unit 25 and the second heating unit 26 into contact with two locations on the fruiting branch W that are spaced apart in the axial direction. If the gripping unit has three or more gripping members, the annular heating sieve destruction process can be performed simultaneously at multiple locations on the fruiting branch W, corresponding to the number of gripping members. 【0063】 The first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 are provided with a first heating element 25 and a second heating element 26, respectively. The first heating element 25 comprises a first right heating element 25R and a first left heating element 25L, and the second heating element 26 comprises a second right heating element 26R and a second left heating element 26L. The first right heating element 25R is provided along the left inner surface of the first right head 23R, and the first left heating element 25L is provided along the right inner surface of the first left head 23L. The second right heating element 26R is provided along the left inner surface of the second right head 24R, and the second left heating element 26L is provided along the right inner surface of the second left head 24L. 【0064】 The heating temperatures of the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are adjusted and set by the temperature control unit 17, as in the first embodiment. The heating temperatures of the first heating element 25 and the second heating element 26 are set to the same temperature, but the temperatures of the first heating element 25 (first right heating element 25R, first left heating element 25L) and the second heating element 26 (second right heating element 26R, second left heating element 26L) may be set individually. 【0065】 In the cultivation promotion method of the second embodiment, the fruiting branch W is locally subjected to annular heating sieve destruction treatment using the same procedure as in the first embodiment. In this case, in the cultivation promotion method of the second embodiment, the first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 heat different positions with a single annular heating sieve destruction treatment, so two locations on the fruiting branch W can be heated simultaneously. 【0066】 Figure 10 shows an example of a fruiting branch W that has undergone annular heating sieve destruction treatment by the cultivation promotion device 2 of the second embodiment. When the fruiting branch W shown on the left side of Figure 10 is subjected to annular heating sieve destruction treatment by the cultivation promotion device 2, the first gripping member 23 and the second gripping member 24 grip the fruiting branch W and heat it, thereby forming two first heated parts F1 and second heated parts F2 shown on the right side of Figure 10. The first heated part F1 is formed closer to the tip of the fruiting branch W than the second heated part F2. 【0067】 In both the first heated section F1 and the second heated section F2, the annular heated sieve destruction treatment destroys two sieve sections on the fruiting branch W. In the fruiting branch W where the sieve sections are destroyed, assimilation products remain on the tip side compared to the first heated section F1, improving the quality of the fruit, such as its coloration. In the cultivation promotion device 2, two sieve sections can be destroyed with a single annular heated sieve destruction treatment, so multiple sieve sections can be destroyed in a short time. 【0068】 (Third embodiment) Next, a third embodiment will be described. The cultivation acceleration device 3 of the third embodiment differs from the cultivation acceleration device 1 of the first embodiment mainly in the shape of the heating section. In the cultivation acceleration device 3 of the third embodiment, the fruiting branch W is not gripped by the gripping section, but rather a hook-shaped hook member that is hooked onto the fruiting branch W is rotated to make contact with the fruiting branch W, thereby destroying the fruiting branch W in the annular heating sieve section. 【0069】 Figure 11 is a perspective view showing an example of a cultivation promotion device 3 according to the third embodiment. The cultivation promotion device 3 according to the third embodiment includes, for example, a handle portion 31, a hook member 32, a heater 33, a switch 36, a temperature control unit 37, and a power cord 38. The handle portion 31, like the handle portion 11 of the first embodiment, has a shape that is easy for the user to grip, for example, a cylindrical shape. 【0070】 A hook member 32 is attached to the tip of the head of the handle portion 31. The hook member 32 comprises, for example, a straight portion and a curved portion extending from the straight portion, with the curved portion extending toward the connection point between the straight portion and the curved portion, up to an intermediate position. The hook member 32 can be configured so that the curved portion can be hooked onto a fruiting branch W, for example, it can be suspended from a fruiting branch W that extends horizontally. A gap wider than the diameter of the fruiting branch W assumed to be the target of the annular heated sieve destruction treatment is formed between the tip of the curved portion and the connection point. The hook member 32 is formed such that the diameter of the curved portion is larger than the diameter of the fruiting branch W assumed to be the target of the annular heated sieve destruction treatment. 【0071】 The hook member 32 is made of a material with high thermal conductivity, such as metal. The hook member 32 is heated overall by heat supplied by the heater (heat source) 33. The hook member 32 may be made of resin or the like, in which case the hook member 32 may have a heating element (heating wire) similar to that of the first embodiment provided on the inside of the curved portion, or a part of the hook member 32 may be made of the material that constitutes the heating wire, and only the part made of the material that constitutes the heating wire may be the heating element. The hook member 32 may be made so that it can be deformed by the user by applying force by hand or using a tool, or it may be made detachable from the handle portion 31 so that multiple types of hook members 32 can be attached to the handle portion 31. 【0072】 A heater 33 is built into the handle portion 31. The heater 33 supplies heat to the hook member 32 to heat it up. A switch 36 is provided at the bottom of the handle portion 31. When the switch 36 is turned ON, the heater 33 heats the hook member 32, and when the switch 36 is turned OFF, the heating of the hook member 32 stops. 【0073】 A temperature control unit 37 is provided in the lower left part of the handle portion 31. The temperature control unit 37 adjusts and sets the heating temperature when the heater 33 heats the hook member 32. Based on the set temperature, the temperature control unit 37 adjusts the amount of heat supplied to the hook member 32 by the heater 33 to adjust the temperature of the hook member 32. 【0074】 One end of a power cord 38 is connected to the heater 33, and the other end of the power cord 38 is connected to a portable power supply PP located outside the cultivation promotion device 3. The heater 33 is electrically connected to the portable power supply PP via the power cord 38. The heater 33 generates heat for heating the hook member 32 using the current supplied by the portable power supply PP and supplies it to the hook member 32. 【0075】 In place of or in addition to the portable power supply PP and power cord 38, a battery for supplying power to the heater 33 may be built into the cultivation promotion device 3. If a heating element is provided on the hook member 32, a battery similar to that in the first embodiment may be provided instead of the heater 33, or a portable power supply and power cord connected to the heating element may be provided. 【0076】 Next, a cultivation promotion method using the cultivation promotion device 3 of the third embodiment will be described. In the cultivation promotion method using the cultivation promotion device 3 of the third embodiment, for example, the user holds the handle portion 31 of the cultivation promotion device 3 in their hand and brings the heated hook member 32 into contact with the fruiting branch W to perform the annular heated sieve section destruction process. 【0077】 Figure 12 shows an example of the usage state of the cultivation promotion device 3 of the third embodiment. To perform the cultivation promotion method, the user first holds the handle portion 31 and hooks the curved portion of the hook member 32 onto the fruiting branch W, as shown by the solid line in Figure 12, so that the inside of the curved portion of the hook member 32 is in contact with the fruiting branch W. Next, the user turns on the switch 36 to heat the hook member 32. 【0078】 The temperature of the hook member 32 is pre-adjusted and set by the temperature control unit 37. The user may heat the hook member 32 by turning on the switch 36 before bringing the hook member 32 into contact with the fruiting branch W. After hooking the hook member 32 onto the fruiting branch W and bringing it into contact, the user may adjust the temperature using the temperature control unit 37, or adjust it to change the set temperature. 【0079】 Once the hook member 32 is in contact with the result branch W, the user, while holding the handle 31, moves the handle 31 so that the hook member 32 rotates around the result branch W, as shown by the dashed line in Figure 12. The user moves the handle 31 so that the hook member 32 rotates around the result branch W and makes annular contact with the result branch W, thereby performing the annular heating sieve destruction process. To make annular contact between the hook member 32 and the result branch W, the user may move the handle 31 continuously or intermittently with a certain time interval between movements. 【0080】 In the third embodiment of the cultivation promotion device 3, the curved portion of the hook member 32 rotates around the fruiting branch W and moves the handle portion 31 so that it makes annular contact with the fruiting branch W, thereby performing the annular heating sieve destruction process. In this way, the annular heating sieve destruction process can be performed even in a configuration in which the fruiting branch W is not gripped by the gripping portion, as in the first and second embodiments, and the annular heating sieve destruction process can be performed with simpler operation than, for example, wrapping a constantan wire around it. Therefore, the effort required for plant cultivation can be reduced. 【0081】 Next, we will describe an experiment to confirm the effect of the ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment on quality in relation to the number of locations on the fruiting branch W that were treated. In the experiment, three Pione grape trees cultivated using short-pruning techniques were used as test trees. The experiment was conducted 40 days after full bloom, corresponding to the watering period (fruit softening period), and the experimental method involved performing the ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment on the internodes of the fruiting branches directly below the fruit cluster. The ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment was performed at a temperature of 500°C, with one fruit cluster per fruiting branch. 【0082】 Three treatment plots were established: an untreated plot, treatment plot 1, and treatment plot 2. In the untreated plot, 18 bunches (6 bunches x 3 trees) were cultivated without the annular heat sieve destruction treatment. In treatment plot 1, 18 bunches (6 bunches x 3 trees) were cultivated after the annular heat sieve destruction treatment was performed in two locations. In treatment plot 2, 18 bunches (6 bunches x 3 trees) were cultivated after the annular heat sieve destruction treatment was performed in four locations. The investigation item was the change in peel color over time, which was measured using a color chart. Figure 13 shows an example of the color chart values ​​from the experiment to confirm the effect of quality improvement. 【0083】 In treatment group 2, the change in color chart values ​​over time was the greatest, and significant improvement in color was observed. In treatment group 1, the change in color chart values ​​over time was smaller than that of the untreated group for a while after the start of the experiment, but as time passed, the change in color chart values ​​over time became larger than that of the untreated group, and significant improvement in color was observed. From these results, it was found that annular heating sieve destruction treatment leads to improved color. 【0084】 (Fourth embodiment) Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. The cultivation acceleration device 4 of the fourth embodiment differs from the cultivation acceleration device 1 of the first embodiment mainly in the shape of the heating section. Figure 14 is a perspective view showing an example of the cultivation acceleration device 4 of the fourth embodiment. The cultivation acceleration device 4 of the fourth embodiment includes, for example, a handle section 41, a base section 42, and an electric heating section 43. The handle section 11 has a shape that is easy for the user to grip. The base section 42 is provided at the upper end of the handle section 41. 【0085】 A heating element 43 is provided on the base portion 42. The heating element 43 comprises a right heating element 43R and a left heating element 43L. The right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L are, for example, nichrome wires with a thickness of about 1.2 mm, but are not limited to this. The right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L have symmetrical shapes, and a result branch W can be inserted between them. 【0086】 The right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L extend, for example, from the connection portion of the base 42, curve in a direction away from each other along the extension direction, curve in a direction closer to each other at a further extension position, and curve in a direction away from each other at a further extension position. A gap is formed at the tip of the heating element 43 on the side away from the base 42 due to the separation of the right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L, and the resulting branch W can be inserted through this gap. The handle 41 has a built-in heating source such as a battery, similar to that of the first embodiment. The heating element 43 is heated when the battery supplies current to it. 【0087】 The right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L are elastic. The tip of the heating element 43 is normally closed, but opens up when the fruiting branch W is inserted, making it easier for the fruiting branch W to enter. After the fruiting branch W is inserted, the elasticity of the right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L causes the tips of the heating elements 43 to come close together and close. This allows the fruiting branch W to be positioned (caught) between the right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L. 【0088】 Next, the annular heating sieve destruction process using the cultivation acceleration device 4 will be described. Figure 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of the flow of the annular heating sieve destruction process. The user grasps the handle portion 41 of the cultivation acceleration device 4 and first presses the tip of the heating element 43 against the fruiting branch W, as shown in the left diagram of Figure 15. A gap is formed at the tip of the heating element 43, so when the user presses the tip of the heating element 43 against the fruiting branch W, the fruiting branch W is pushed into the heating element 43, as shown in the center diagram of Figure 15. 【0089】 Once the result branch W is pressed into the heating element 43, the user moves the handle 41 in the direction in which the result branch W extends, bringing the right heating element 43R or the left heating element 43L of the heating element 43 into contact with the result branch W. Subsequently, while holding the handle 41, the user moves the handle 41 so that the heating element 43 rotates around the result branch W, as shown in the right diagram of Figure 15. 【0090】 The user moves the handle portion 41 so that the heating element 43 rotates around the result branch W and makes ring-shaped contact with the result branch W, thereby performing the annular heating sieve destruction process. To make the heating element 43 make ring-shaped contact with the result branch W, the user may move the handle portion 41 continuously or intermittently with a certain time interval between movements. 【0091】 Once heating of the fruiting branch W is complete, the heating element 43 is separated from the fruiting branch W. Then, the fruiting branch W is pulled out from the heating element 43, and the annular heating sieve destruction process is completed. Figure 16 shows an example of a fruiting branch W that has undergone the annular heating sieve destruction process. In the annular heating sieve destruction process using the cultivation promotion device 4, two heated sections F are formed. 【0092】 The cultivation promotion device 4 of the fourth embodiment has a structure in which a heating element 43 is provided on a handle part 41 via a base part 42, so it can be made into a very simple structure. Furthermore, the heating element 43 is equipped with a right heating element 43R and a left heating element 43L, and the fruiting branch W is pressed between the right heating element 43R and the left heating element 43L and subjected to annular heating sieve destruction treatment, so the entire circumference of the fruiting branch W can be easily heated. 【0093】 Next, we will describe an experiment to confirm the effect of the ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment on quality in relation to the number of locations on the fruiting branch W that were treated. In the experiment, two Shine Muscat grape trees cultivated using short-pruning techniques were used as test plants. The experiment was conducted approximately 50 days after full bloom, corresponding to the period after watering (after the fruit softening period), and the experimental method involved performing the ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment on the internodes of the fruiting branches directly below the fruit clusters. The ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment was performed at a temperature of 500°C, with one fruit cluster per fruiting branch. 【0094】 Three treatment areas were established: an untreated area, treatment area 1, and treatment area 2. In the untreated area, 12 bunches (6 bunches x 2 trees) were cultivated without the annular heat sieve destruction treatment. In treatment area 1, 12 bunches (6 bunches x 2 trees) were cultivated after the annular heat sieve destruction treatment was performed in two locations. In treatment area 2, 12 bunches (6 bunches x 2 trees) were cultivated after the annular heat sieve destruction treatment was performed in four locations. The survey items investigated were fruit quality at harvest (sugar content, acid content, bunch weight, and weight per berry). 【0095】 As a result, the sugar content of the fruit at harvest was 18.4 degrees in the untreated group, while in treated group 2, the sugar content at harvest was the highest at approximately 21.2 degrees, showing a significant improvement in sugar content. Furthermore, in treated group 1, the sugar content at harvest was 20.2 degrees, showing an improvement in sugar content compared to the untreated group. These results indicate that annular heating and sieve destruction treatment leads to an improvement in sugar content. 【0096】 Furthermore, an experiment was conducted to confirm the effect of the ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment on improving kiwi fruit quality in relation to the number of locations on fruiting branches W treated. This experiment will be described below. In the experiment, Hayward kiwifruit grown in open fields was used as the test tree. The experiment was conducted approximately 50 days after full bloom, and the experimental method involved performing the ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment on the part of the fruiting branch closest to the base of the fruit-bearing portion, after thinning to leave about 3 to 4 fruits. The ring-type heat sieve destruction treatment was performed at a temperature of 500°C. 【0097】 Three treatment plots were established: an untreated plot, treatment plot 1, and treatment plot 2. In the untreated plot, six fruiting branches were cultivated without the annular heat sieve destruction treatment. In treatment plot 1, six fruiting branches were cultivated after the annular heat sieve destruction treatment was performed in two locations. In treatment plot 2, six fruiting branches were cultivated after the annular heat sieve destruction treatment was performed in four locations. Fruit weight at harvest was investigated. 【0098】 In the untreated group, the fruit weight at harvest was 113.8g, while in treatment group 2, the fruit weight at harvest was approximately 129.9g, the heaviest, demonstrating a significant effect on fruit enlargement. In treatment group 1, the fruit weight at harvest was 125.4g, showing an effect on fruit enlargement compared to the untreated group. These results indicate that ring-type heated sieve destruction treatment promotes fruit enlargement. 【0099】 In the first and second embodiments described above, the right head 12R, left head 12L, etc., which form the gripping portion 12, are provided with heating elements 13, etc. However, the entire head forming the gripping portion 12, etc., or a portion of the head that contacts the fruiting branch W, may be formed from the metal material that serves as the heating element. Compared to the embodiment in which the entire gripping portion 12 is a heating element, the embodiment in which the heating element 13 is provided on the gripping portion 12 or in the embodiment in which only a part of the gripping portion 12 is a heating element has a narrower heated area, thereby increasing user safety and reducing energy consumption. In the first and second embodiments, a battery 14 is provided to supply current to the heating element 13, but instead of or in addition to the battery 14, a power cord connected to a portable power supply PP or other power supply device as shown in the third embodiment may be provided. Similarly, in the fourth embodiment, instead of or in addition to the battery, a power cord connected to a portable power supply PP or other power supply device may be provided. 【0100】 In the first and second embodiments described above, the gripping portions 12 and 22 that grip the fruiting branch W function as heating portions to destroy the annular heated sieve portion of the fruiting branch W. Alternatively, the heating portion may destroy the annular heated sieve portion of the fruiting branch W by bringing the heating portion that surrounds the fruiting branch W in the circumferential direction into contact with the fruiting branch W, without gripping the fruiting branch W. 【0101】 Although embodiments for carrying out the present invention have been described above using examples, the present invention is not limited in any way to these embodiments, and various modifications and substitutions can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. [Explanation of Symbols] 【0102】 1,2,3,4 Cultivation promotion device 11,31,41 Handle section 12 Gripping part 12C pin 12L Left-Handed 12R Right Head 13,43 Electric heating part 14 batteries 15 Open / Close Switching Section 16,36 switches 17,37 Temperature control section 20 Gripping member 22 Gripping part 23 First gripping member 23C Pin 1 23L 1st Left Head 23R 1st Right Head 24 Second gripping member 24C Pin 2 24L 2nd left head 24R 2nd Right Head 25 1st electric heating section 25L 1st left electric heating section 25R 1st right electric heating section 26 2nd electric heating section 26L Second left electric heating element 26R 2nd right electric heating section 32 Hook member 33 Heater 38 Power cord 42 Base 43L Left heating element 43R Right heating element F Heated part F1 1st heated part F2 2nd heated part PP Portable Power Supply W,W1,W2 result branch

Claims

[Claim 1] After heating the rhizome by bringing a heating element heated to a predetermined temperature into contact with at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the rhizome of a plant, thereby reducing the function of the sieve portion in the rhizome, To cultivate the aforementioned plants, Methods for promoting plant growth. [Claim 2] The heating unit heats the rhizome in an annular manner over the entire circumference of the rhizome. A method for promoting the cultivation of plants as described in claim 1. [Claim 3] By gripping the rhizome with the heating element, the heating element is brought into contact with the rhizome. A method for promoting the cultivation of plants according to claim 1 or 2. [Claim 4] After bringing the heating element into contact with the rhizome, the heating element is heated. A method for promoting the cultivation of plants as described in claim 1. [Claim 5] The heated heating part is brought into contact with the rhizome. A method for promoting the cultivation of plants as described in claim 1. [Claim 6] The heating element is brought into contact with multiple locations on the rhizome that are spaced apart in the axial direction. A method for promoting the cultivation of plants as described in claim 1. [Claim 7] A heating element that is in contact with at least a portion of the circumferential direction of the rhizome of a plant, The system comprises a heating source for heating the aforementioned heating section, A device to promote plant growth. [Claim 8] The heating element is in ring-like contact with the entire circumference of the rhizome. The plant cultivation promotion device according to claim 7. [Claim 9] The heating section includes an electric heating element attached to a tip member that is in contact with the rhizome, The plant cultivation promotion device according to claim 7 or 8. [Claim 10] The tip member includes a gripping member for gripping the rhizome portion. The plant cultivation promotion device according to claim 9. [Claim 11] The gripping member is equipped with an opening / closing switching unit, The plant cultivation promotion device according to claim 10. [Claim 12] The heating section is an electric heating section, The heating source includes a power supply that is electrically connected to the heating element and supplies power to the heating element. The plant cultivation promotion device according to claim 9. [Claim 13] The system comprises multiple heating elements that are spaced apart in the axial direction of the rhizome, each of which is in contact with a plurality of heating elements. The plant cultivation promotion device according to claim 7 or 8.

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