Gantry for high-set cultivation

Abstract

To provide a frame for elevated plant cultivation that covers the outer rim of a net 1 to secure a worker's safety, has a simple structure, is easy for assemble and installation, and is available at low cost.SOLUTION: A frame for elevated plant cultivation 3 has a rectangular net 1 for placing a cultivation container 24 thereon, a metal outer pipe 2 provided at a position to cover the outer rim of the net 1, a placing rod 4 that has the net 1 to be placed thereon, and a plurality of support legs 5 that is coupled to the placing rod 4 and disposed at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the net 1. The net 1 is expanded metal 1a. The placing rod 4 has a vertical rod 4a and a plurality of lateral rods 4b. The lateral rod 4b is coupled to the vertical rod 4a in a crossing posture and its both ends are coupled to the support leg 5. The outer pipe 2 is a metal pipe 8 and has a vertical pipe 2a and a lateral pipe 2b. The vertical pipe 2a is coupled to the support leg 5.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to a stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

Background Art

[0002] Elevated cultivation, which does not require workers to bend down like in soil cultivation, can reduce the work burden and is generally widespread as it is easy to manage cultivation. The same applies to seedling raising. As a stand used for such elevated cultivation, a stand that uses a net material for the top plate that supports cultivation containers and the like is adopted. As the net material of the stand, one with sufficient strength and good air permeability, for example, expanded metal, is used. As a simple type, there is one in which expanded metal is placed on a support post driven into the ground.

[0003] However, the conventional method of embedding the support posts of each leg member in the ground requires a great deal of labor and time to embed the metal pipe of the support post straight into the ground and level it, which is an extremely difficult task. Also, when the expanded metal of the net material is exposed, the outer periphery of the expanded metal may catch during work, leading to a decrease in work efficiency, and there is also a risk of injury or getting caught by metal burrs and falling. Although dedicated covers such as end face covers and corner guards for preventing catching are sold, they are expensive and require a considerable amount of cost and labor for installation on the entire outer periphery of a large area. Furthermore, management such as replacement due to deterioration is also necessary. There are also some expanded metals that are resin-coated and are difficult to catch, but these are also expensive and not practical considering a large area. In addition, there is also a stand in which the table itself is provided with an L-shaped frame member for placing the net material and is welded (Patent Document 1). This is also expensive and difficult for a large area. It is heavy and difficult to install and move. Also, a dedicated corner guard is required at the corners.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] Therefore, the present invention has been developed for the purpose of eliminating the above drawbacks. One object of the present invention is to cover the outer peripheral edge of expanded metal, which is a mesh material, to ensure the safety of workers, and to provide a simple structure, easy assembly and installation, and an inexpensive gantry for high-altitude cultivation of plants. Means for Solving the Problems and Effects of the Invention

[0006] The gantry for high-altitude cultivation of plants according to the first aspect of the present invention includes a rectangular mesh material extending in the longitudinal direction with a predetermined width for placing a cultivation container, a metal outer peripheral pipe provided at a position covering the outer periphery of the mesh material, a placing rod on which the mesh material is placed, and a plurality of support legs connected to the placing rod and arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the mesh material. The mesh material is expanded metal, and the placing rod has a vertical rod extending in the longitudinal direction of the mesh material and a plurality of horizontal rods arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the vertical rod and extending in the short direction of the mesh material. The horizontal rods are connected to the vertical rod in an intersecting posture and both ends are connected to the support legs. The outer peripheral pipe is a metal pipe and has a vertical pipe covering the longitudinal direction of the outer periphery of the expanded metal, which is the mesh material, and a horizontal pipe connected to the end of the vertical pipe and covering the short direction of the outer periphery of the expanded metal, which is the mesh material. The vertical pipe is connected to the support legs.

[0007] According to the above configuration, the outer peripheral pipe provided at the position covering the outer periphery of the wire mesh material can prevent the hooking of the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal which is the wire mesh material, ensuring the safety of the operator and improving the working efficiency. The outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal has burrs and protrusions on the cut surface, making it easy to get hooked, and there is a risk of injury or falling during work. By using a cylindrical metal pipe for the outer peripheral pipe, it forms a smooth curve, eliminating the worry of getting hooked during work and ensuring the safety of the operator. The operator can work with confidence without worrying about getting hooked and can concentrate on the work, contributing to the improvement of work efficiency. The vertical rod of the loading rod supports the wire mesh material in the longitudinal direction, and the horizontal rod supports the wire mesh material in the short direction. The vertical rod and the horizontal rod are connected in an intersecting posture, and both ends of the horizontal rod are connected to the support legs. With such a simple structure, the strength of the entire gantry is ensured, enabling stable support. By connecting the vertical pipe and the horizontal pipe of the outer peripheral pipe and connecting the vertical pipe to the support legs, the strength of the entire gantry can be improved. The expanded metal which is the wire mesh material has sufficient strength as a wire mesh material for supporting the loaded object, and is mesh-shaped with good air permeability. In terms of material, the moisture supplied to the plants by watering does not accumulate, and it is less likely to cause diseases. By being fixed to the loading rod, the strength of the entire gantry is increased, contributing to stable support.

[0008] In addition to the above configuration, the gantry for elevated cultivation of plants according to the second aspect of the present invention can form the corner portion of the outer peripheral pipe into a bent portion formed by bending a metal pipe.

[0009] According to the above configuration, since the corner portion of the outer peripheral pipe is a bent portion formed by bending a metal pipe, it forms a smooth curve, similarly ensuring the safety of the operator and improving the working efficiency. Also, due to the bending process of the metal pipe, no connectors are required, achieving cost reduction. By making the length of the horizontal pipe match the length in the short direction of the wire mesh material and bending the metal pipe in advance, length adjustment is not required during assembly, making the assembly easy. The connection between the bent metal pipe and the straight metal pipe allows various combinations, making the assembly easy and achieving cost reduction through the common use of components.

[0010] In addition to any of the above configurations, the stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to the third aspect of the present invention is such that the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal extends in the radial direction outward from the center of the nearest outer peripheral pipe and has an inclination angle of 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane, and can be disposed below the tangent (L) direction at the intersection of the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral pipe.

[0011] According to the above configuration, since the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal is within a predetermined range, it is possible to prevent the catching of the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal, ensure the safety of the operator, and improve the working efficiency.

[0012] In addition to any of the above configurations, the stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to the fourth aspect of the present invention is such that the vertical rod is a U-shaped member having bent portions on both sides of a flat surface extending in the longitudinal direction.

[0013] According to the above configuration, the U-shaped member having bent portions on both sides of the flat surface extending in the longitudinal direction has strength due to the bent portions provided on both sides of the flat surface, supports the net material from below in the longitudinal direction, and by cross-connecting the horizontal rods to this vertical rod, the strength of the entire stand is maintained and stable support is enabled. By using the flat surface extending in the longitudinal direction of the metal frame and applying the screw head and washer to the intersection portion of the mesh of the expanded metal, the net material and the vertical rod can be easily fixed. It can be fixed from above the net material and can be easily assembled.

[0014] In addition to any of the above configurations, the stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is such that a container set gap for disposing a cultivation container is formed between one vertical pipe and the side edge of the net material. The horizontal rod has a stepped shape and has an upper horizontal portion for supporting the net material and a lower placing portion for placing the cultivation container disposed in the container set gap. The horizontal portion and the placing portion are connected via a stepped bending portion, and the horizontal portion, the placing portion, and the stepped bending portion are formed of one metal pipe.

[0015] According to the above configuration, the cultivation containers arranged in the container set gap do not need to have a dedicated shape. Various types and shapes of containers other than general planters can be used. Since the container set gap is provided between the vertical pipe and the side edge of the net material, the containers fit well. By positioning the placing part below the horizontal part, the center of gravity of the gantry is lowered, and the containers can be stably supported. Also, the types, shapes, and sizes of the cultivation containers arranged on the net are not limited, and various cultivation methods can be accommodated, such as being able to move and arrange the cultivation containers according to the growth state. The horizontal rod has a horizontal part, a placing part, and a stepped bending part, and is composed of a single metal pipe. Since the stepped bending part is formed by bending the metal pipe, positioning and fine adjustment of the height difference are not required during assembly, and the assembly is easy. Also, there is no need to connect members of different lengths with joints, which can reduce the number of parts and lead to cost reduction. By providing a step between the upper surface of the upper net material and the upper surface of the lower placing part, for example, when cultivating plants of different heights, different growth degrees, different harvesting times, different types of plants, etc., the influence of the shade of large plants can be suppressed to provide an appropriate environment, and it is easy to observe and manage the cultivation situation without large plants getting in the way of work.

[0016] The gantry for high-set cultivation of plants according to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in addition to the above fifth configuration, is adapted to cultivate plants that propagate daughter plants from mother plants, and the upper surface of the net material can be the cultivation area for daughter plants that cultivate daughter plants, and the container set gap can be the cultivation area for mother plants where mother plant containers for cultivating mother plants are arranged.

[0017] According to the above configuration, when cultivating plants that grow and propagate by extending runners (stolons), such as strawberries, an appropriate environment can be provided. By arranging the parent plant container for cultivating the parent plant at a lower position than the cultivation area of the daughter plants, the runner can extend horizontally from the parent plant container arranged in the container set gap along the net material supported by the horizontal part that is one step higher than the placing part (horizontal cultivation). This horizontal cultivation can avoid the problems of vertical cultivation where the runners droop. The runners can grow without stress such as moisture and sunlight, and cultivation management is also easy as the runners do not get entangled. Severe water management is not required. It is possible to avoid the risk of physical damage caused by touching or rubbing against the edge of the planter of the parent plant container or by heat. There is no need to place the parent plant container at a height of 2 m or the like, and the parent plant of strawberries, which is vulnerable to heat, is not exposed to a harsh environment, and no measures such as air conditioning or sunlight are required. By using the upper surface of the net material as the cultivation area for the daughter plants, the daughter plant containers can be freely arranged and moved, and cultivation management is easy. Since the cultivation area of the parent plant is located below, the height of the parent plant and the parent plant container does not interfere with the work, and the condition of the plants can be easily observed and cultivation management can be easily carried out even from the side of the parent plant container of the gantry.

[0018] In addition to the above-described fifth or sixth configuration, the gantry for elevated cultivation of plants according to the seventh aspect of the present invention can have a height difference (H) between the placing part and the horizontal part of 4 cm to 20 cm.

[0019] According to the above configuration, for example, according to the heights of planters generally used for parent plant containers and polypots used for daughter plant containers, the heights at which the parent plant container and the daughter plant container are installed can be adjusted so that the runners extend horizontally from the parent plant. The runners can be provided with a good growth environment without being subjected to unnecessary stress such as moisture and sunlight, easily preventing the runners from getting entangled with each other, and avoiding physical damage caused by the edge of the planter.

[0020] The pedestal for elevated cultivation of plants according to the eighth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the above configurations, has support legs made of metal pipes, and the metal pipes have horizontal legs installed on the ground and vertical legs connected to both ends of the horizontal legs via bending parts, and the horizontal legs, vertical legs, and bending parts can be composed of a single metal pipe formed by bending.

[0021] According to the above configuration, rather than supporting at the bottom surface of each single column, the area where the support legs contact the ground is wider, and it is possible to prevent sinking into the ground. Of course, there is no need to drive the columns into the ground. Also, since the vertical legs are connected to both ends of the horizontal legs of a predetermined length adjusted in advance in the short direction of the pedestal via bending parts, and a single metal pipe is formed by bending, there is no need to adjust the length in the short direction of the pedestal, it can be easily assembled, and it contributes to cost reduction.

[0022] The pedestal for elevated cultivation of plants according to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the above configurations, further includes a first connector for connecting the upper part of the support leg and the end of the horizontal rod, and a second connector for connecting the vertical pipe and the upper end of the support leg. The vertical pipe is connected to the horizontal rod via the second connector, the support leg, and the first connector, a vertical rod is fixed on the horizontal rod, and an expanded metal mesh material is fixed on the vertical rod, and an outer peripheral pipe can be arranged at a position covering the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal.

[0023] According to the above configuration, first, the upper part of the support leg and the end of the horizontal rod can be connected by the first connector, and by fixing each, the ends of the orthogonal support leg and horizontal rod can be connected and fixed. Next, the vertical pipe and the upper end of the support leg can be connected by the second connector, and by fixing each, the upper ends of the orthogonal vertical pipe and support leg can be connected and fixed. In both cases, the assembly becomes easy and contributes to cost reduction.

[0024] According to the above configuration, since the vertical pipe is connected to the horizontal rod via the second connector, the support leg, and the first connector, the connection and fixation of the vertical pipe and the horizontal bar can be easily achieved, and the assembly becomes easy.

[0025] The pedestal for elevated cultivation of plants according to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the above configurations, further includes a vertical sway prevention pipe connected to the support leg and the placing rod, and the vertical sway prevention pipe has a horizontal pipe portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the net material, and a reinforcing portion connected to the horizontal pipe portion via an acute-angle bending portion, and the tip of the horizontal pipe portion can be connected to the lower end portion of the support leg, and the tip of the reinforcing portion can be connected to the cross rod.

[0026] According to the above configuration, with respect to the sway in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) of the pedestal that has reached a certain length or more and the force in the vertical direction, the strength of the entire pedestal is ensured, and stable support is enabled.

[0027] The pedestal for elevated cultivation of plants according to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in addition to any of the above configurations, can have an outer diameter of the metal pipe of 18.6 mm to 19.6 mm and a wall thickness of 0.9 mm to 1.5 mm.

[0028] According to the above configuration, by being able to use a metal pipe of a general-purpose standard, the material cost can be reduced, and an inexpensive pedestal can be provided. Also, by using a metal pipe with the same diameter and the same wall thickness, the standardization of parts and components can be achieved, the same connecting tools can be used, and the manufacturing cost can be reduced. It is also convenient and low-cost when replacing parts. This size of metal pipe is inexpensive, lightweight, and a member with sufficient strength as a pedestal for plant cultivation. For example, it is widely used for small plastic greenhouses, plastic containers for spring ginseng, etc., and is commercially available at low cost at home centers and is easy to obtain.

Brief Explanation of Drawings

[0029]

Figure 1

Figure 2

Figure 3

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Figure 7

Figure 8

Figure 9

[0030] Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. In the following description, terms indicating specific directions and positions (for example, "up", "down", and other terms including those terms) are used as necessary, but the use of those terms is for facilitating the understanding of the invention with reference to the drawings, and the technical scope of the present invention is not limited by the meanings of those terms. Also, parts denoted by the same reference numerals appearing in a plurality of drawings indicate the same or equivalent parts or members. Further, the embodiments shown below are specific examples of the technical idea of the present invention, and do not limit the present invention below. Also, the dimensions, materials, shapes, relative arrangements, etc. of the components described below are not intended to limit the scope of the present invention only to those, but are intended to be illustrative. Also, the content described in one embodiment or example is applicable to other embodiments or examples. Also, the sizes and positional relationships of the members shown in the drawings may be exaggerated for clarity of explanation. In the present invention, the long sides of the stand and the net material are shown as the longitudinal direction (vertical direction), and the short sides are shown as the lateral direction (horizontal direction). For example, the vertical legs of the support legs that are perpendicular to the net material stand vertically. For example, the horizontal legs of the support legs and the horizontal pipe portions of the vertical sway prevention pipes that are in the horizontal direction (parallel direction) with the net material extend in a direction parallel to the net material.

[0031] The stand for elevated cultivation of the present invention is mainly a stand used for seedling cultivation and cultivation inside buildings such as greenhouses for leafy vegetables. In particular, the structure with steps in the cultivation area is suitable for the use of horizontal cultivation in which runners (stolons) are extended from the parent plant to grow daughter plants, for plants that grow runners horizontally. As such plants, for example, strawberries and the like can be preferably adopted. In the case of strawberries, about 10 to 30 daughter plants are grown from one parent plant. [Embodiment 1]

[0032] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a stand 3 for elevated cultivation according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The stand 3 for elevated cultivation shown in FIG. 1 includes a rectangular wire mesh 1 extending in the longitudinal direction with a predetermined width for placing the cultivation container 24, a metal outer peripheral pipe 2 provided at a position covering the outer periphery of the wire mesh 1, a placing rod 4 on which the wire mesh 1 is placed, and a plurality of support legs 5 connected to the placing rod 4 and arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the wire mesh 1. The wire mesh 1 is expanded metal 1a, and the placing rod 4 has a vertical rod 4a extending in the longitudinal direction of the wire mesh 1 and a plurality of horizontal rods 4b arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the vertical rod 4a and extending in the lateral direction of the wire mesh 1. The horizontal rods 4b are connected to the vertical rod 4a in an intersecting posture and both ends are connected to the support legs 5. The outer peripheral pipe 2 is a metal pipe 8 and has a vertical pipe 2a covering the longitudinal direction of the outer periphery of the expanded metal 1a which is the wire mesh 1, and a horizontal pipe 2b connected to the end of the vertical pipe 2a and covering the lateral direction of the outer periphery of the expanded metal 1a which is the wire mesh 1, and the vertical pipe 2a is connected to the support legs 5. (Expanded metal 1a)

[0033] As shown in Fig. 1, expanded metal 1a is used as the netting material 1. The expanded metal 1a has sufficient strength as a netting material to support the upper layer, is mesh-shaped and has good air permeability. In terms of material, the moisture supplied to plants by watering does not accumulate, making it less likely to cause diseases. The protrusions on the surface of the expanded metal 1a serve as an anti-slip measure for the cultivation container 24, contributing to ease of cultivation management and work. The expanded metal 1a can be easily fixed to the supporting member below with flat head screws or screws with washers at the intersection of the mesh (mesh) of the expanded metal 1a. Also, together with other members, by adding or cutting the expanded metal 1a, the lengths in the longitudinal direction (vertical direction) and the transverse direction (horizontal direction) of the gantry 3 can be sized according to the user's requirements. The expanded metal 1a is characterized by its manufacturing method. It is a mesh-shaped metal plate obtained by expanding a single metal plate while making staggered cuts and forming the cuts into a diamond or checkerboard shape. Since the plate is stretched and cut, it is lighter than a metal plate, has no seams in the net, and is strong because the applied load is dispersed. It has features that can be utilized in the present invention, such as being mesh-shaped with good air permeability, being cuttable, and having protrusions on the surface that serve as an anti-slip measure for the upper layer. There is no limitation to the cultivation container 24 arranged on the expanded metal 1a, and various types, shapes, and sizes of cultivation containers 24 can be used.

[0034] The standard size of the expanded metal 1a of the wire mesh 1 is, for example, Standard XS42, with a width of 914 mm × a length of 1829 mm, a mesh size of 22 mm × 50.8 mm, and a plate thickness of 2.3 mm / a pitch of 2.5 mm. There are also various products according to the mesh size and the like. The expanded metal 1a has a soroban pattern and a tatami pattern depending on the direction of the mesh, and either can be used. However, since the expanded metal 1a is manufactured by rolling a metal plate, individual differences occur in the way the material extends, and errors can occur depending on the cutting location and method. Depending on the length, the diamond pattern may shift by half a pitch. Considering these factors, the outer peripheral pipe 2 needs to be arranged at a position where it can cover the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a. Regarding the vertical and horizontal sizes, considering that a certain error can occur while assuming the standard size, a gap can be provided in advance. Also, during assembly, the installation position can be finely adjusted when fixing the placing rod 4 that supports the expanded metal 1a, and the play can also be adjusted with the first connector 11 and the third connector 13. (Outer peripheral pipe 2)

[0035] As shown in FIG. 1, the outer peripheral pipe 2 is a metal pipe 8 provided at a position covering the outer periphery of the wire mesh 1, and is formed by connecting a vertical pipe 2a and a horizontal pipe 2b. The vertical pipe 2a mainly covers the longitudinal direction of the outer periphery of the wire mesh 1, and the horizontal pipe 2b mainly covers the transverse direction of the outer periphery of the wire mesh 1. As shown in the enlarged view of FIG. 1, if the burrs on the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a of the wire mesh 1 are exposed, when an operator passes through the passage or during work, the operator's clothes may get caught on the outer peripheral edge of the wire mesh, and there is also a risk of the hands and feet touching and getting injured or falling. This is even more the case when working in a bent-over posture. Therefore, the structure is such that the outer peripheral pipe 2 covers the outer periphery of the expanded metal 1a of the wire mesh 1.

[0036] The outer peripheral pipe 2 covering the outer periphery of the expanded metal 1a which is the wire material 1 means a state where the nearest outer peripheral pipe 2 is arranged so as not to be caught by the burrs on the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a. When the center of the nearest outer peripheral pipe 2 is substantially arranged directly beside the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a (Fig. 2), of course, even if it is slightly displaced vertically, as long as it is located within the range where there is no risk of being caught by the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a, it can be said that it is covered by the outer peripheral pipe 2. The outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a can be brought into contact with the outer peripheral pipe 2, and a gap can also be provided between the two. Considering product errors, cutting errors, etc. of the expanded metal 1a, the outer peripheral pipe 2 is arranged at a position where there is no risk of being caught.

[0037] Specifically, as shown in Fig. 3A, the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a can be arranged below the tangent (L) direction at the intersection of the inclined surface extending in the radial direction outward from the center of the nearest outer peripheral pipe 2 and having an elevation angle of 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane and the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral pipe 2. Also, as shown in Fig. 3B, the height (h) of the upper end of the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a can be set lower than the height (h1) of the upper end of the nearest outer peripheral pipe 2 and higher than the height (h2) of the lower end. By arranging the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a which is the wire material 1 within this range, the outer peripheral pipe 2 can cover the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a. Thereby, it is possible to prevent the burrs and catches on the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a from being touched by the operator's clothes or hands when working or passing through the passage.

[0038] Since the outer peripheral pipe 2 is a cylindrical metal pipe 8, the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a which is the wire material 1 can be covered by the smooth cylindrical curve of the outer peripheral pipe 2. Therefore, there is no worry of being caught during work, the safety of the operator can be ensured, the operator can concentrate on the work, and the work efficiency can be improved.

[0039] If the outer peripheral pipe 2 made of the metal pipe 8 has too small an outer diameter, the strength of the gantry will decrease, and it will be easily restricted in the arrangement for covering the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a. On the contrary, if the outer diameter is too large, the weight will increase, making the assembly time-consuming and unable to be manufactured at low cost. Therefore, considering these factors, the outer diameter of the metal pipe 8 used for the outer peripheral pipe 2 is 15.0 mm to 25.0 mm, preferably 18.6 mm to 19.6 mm. The outer diameter and wall thickness of such a metal pipe 8 will be described in detail later.

[0040] The corner part of the outer peripheral pipe 2 can be a bent part 2c formed by bending the metal pipe 8. Also at the corner part of the outer peripheral pipe 2, there is no worry of getting caught during work as described above, the safety of the operator can be ensured, and the work efficiency can be improved. Further, since the metal pipe 8 is bent, a coupler is not required for that part, and cost reduction can be achieved. In order to prevent the strength of the metal pipe 8 from extremely decreasing due to bending, the bent part 2c is preferably bent with a curvature radius of 1.5 times or more the diameter of the metal pipe 8. The curvature radius of the bent part 2c is preferably 1.5 times to 5 times, more preferably 2 times to 4 times the diameter (outer diameter) of the metal pipe 8. For example, when the outer diameter of the metal pipe 8 is 19 mm, it is preferably bent with a curvature radius of 28.5 mm to 95 mm, more preferably 38 mm to 76 mm. This is the same for other members where the metal pipe 8 is bent.

[0041] It is conceivable to cover the outer periphery of the net material 1 with an L-shaped frame material, but it is difficult to bend the L-shaped frame material into a smooth curve. It may bend or the L-shaped frame material may open, resulting in inability to maintain strength and being a cause of rust and corrosion due to aging deterioration. When the L-shaped frame materials are assembled into a substantially rectangular shape, joints and welding are required at the corners, and a corner guard for covering the corners is further required. In this regard, the metal pipe 8 has a cylindrical shape and there is no worry of getting caught even if the operator's hand or clothes touch it. Also, since it can be bent into a smooth curve even at the corners, it can be said to be optimal as an anti-catching pipe.

[0042] The outer peripheral pipe 2 can combine the metal pipe 8 bent at one or two locations with the straight metal pipe 8. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, both ends of the vertical pipes 2a of the two straight metal pipes 8 arranged on both sides of the wire mesh 1 can be respectively connected to the horizontal pipes 2b of the metal pipe 8 bent in a substantially U shape. Alternatively, by connecting two metal pipes 8 bent in a substantially L shape at only one location, it is also possible to form the horizontal pipe 2b or the vertical pipe 2a. The metal pipe 8 bent in a substantially L shape can be used as the horizontal pipe 2b and the vertical pipe 2a. The metal pipe 8 bent in a substantially L shape and the straight metal pipe 8 may be connected. The vertical pipe 2a of the straight metal pipe 8 and the horizontal pipe 2b of the straight metal pipe 8 can also be connected by a bent connector or a substantially L-shaped connector. Various combinations are possible, making assembly easy and cost reduction achievable through component standardization. For example, if the metal pipe 8 bent in a substantially U shape is used as the horizontal pipe 2b, length adjustment is unnecessary and assembly is easy. When two L-shaped metal pipes bent in a substantially L shape at only one location of the metal pipe 8 are connected to form the horizontal pipe 2b, if the width in the short direction of the wire mesh 1 is different from the standard predetermined width, it is possible to cope with the length of the width by replacing only one of the connected L-shaped metal pipes, meeting the user's needs while achieving cost reduction through component standardization.

[0043] The size of the outer peripheral pipe 2 is preferably adjusted according to the standard size of the expanded metal 1a. For example, the horizontal width is about 90 cm to 100 cm, and the vertical length can be adjusted according to the length of the expanded metal 1a joined together. However, the vertical and horizontal lengths can also be adjusted by cutting and adding the expanded metal 1a.

[0044] When bending the metal pipe 8, it is preferable that no dents occur on the inner or outer side of the bent portion 2c. If dents occur on the inner or outer side of the bent portion 2c or the curve is not smooth during bending, it is difficult to maintain the strength of the metal pipe 8, and there is also a risk of rust and damage due to aging deterioration. The same applies when bending the metal pipe 8 in other members.

[0045] Bending the metal pipe 8 can not only prevent the snagging on the outer periphery of the mesh member 1 by drawing a smooth curve while maintaining the substantially cylindrical shape of the metal pipe 8, but also eliminate the need for welding and connectors, resulting in a simple structure, easy assembly, and cost reduction. The same applies when bending the metal pipe 8 in other members.

[0046] The outer peripheral pipe 2 is formed by connecting the horizontal pipe 2b and the vertical pipe 2a to surround the entire outer periphery of the mesh member 1 in a substantially rectangular shape. By connecting and fixing the outer peripheral pipe 2 to the support leg 5 and further connecting and fixing it to the mounting rod 4 via the support leg 5, the outer peripheral pipe 2 surrounding the gantry 3 in a substantially rectangular shape functions as a part of the frame of the gantry 3, improving the strength of the entire gantry 3. Without adding a separate reinforcing member, the strength of the entire gantry 3 can be improved, leading to weight reduction and cost reduction.

[0047] Although not shown in the figure, when laying a sheet, net, etc. on the mesh member 1, it is necessary to prevent displacement of the sheet, etc. and prevent it from being lifted by the wind. Since the outer peripheral pipe 2 is a metal pipe 8, it is possible to use a stopper that fits the outer diameter of the metal pipe 8, which is easy and inexpensive.

[0048] Although not shown, for example, either the inner diameter or the outer diameter of either one of the connecting portions of the vertical pipe 2a and the horizontal pipe 2b can be fitted to the outer diameter or the inner diameter of the other. It is also possible to reduce the outer diameter of either one of the connecting portions of the vertical pipe 2a and the horizontal pipe 2b to match the inner diameter of the other, or to increase the inner diameter of either one to match the outer diameter of the other. The connecting portion can also be tapered. Further, different-sized metal pipes 8 can be used such that the inner diameter of either one matches the outer diameter of the other so that the connecting portions of the vertical pipe 2a and the horizontal pipe 2b fit together, or a separate member called a connector for connecting the pipes can be used. By providing a connecting portion, connection and fixation can be easily achieved. However, the connection method is not limited to this method. Also, for the fixation of the connecting portion, various methods such as screwing, pinning, locking portions, clamping tools (belts), etc. are possible, and the method is not limited. Additionally, for example, like the repellent of an umbrella, there is also a method of using an elastic force such as a spring to fit locking protrusions such as plates, wires, spheres, etc. into locking holes for fixation, a method of turning a fixing ring and tightening a fixing screw like an extendable walking stick, and using a plunger, etc. Screwing, etc. can be inexpensively and easily fixed firmly, and the method of using an elastic force such as a spring can be easily connected just by fitting it into a predetermined position. (Mounting rod 4)

[0049] As shown in FIG. 1, the mounting rod 4 has a vertical rod 4a extending in the longitudinal direction of the gantry 3 and a horizontal rod 4b extending in the lateral direction of the gantry 3. By intersecting and connecting the vertical rod 4a and the horizontal rod 4b, the expanded metal 1a of the mesh material 1 is supported from below. As shown in FIG. 2, by arranging the vertical rod 4a above the horizontal rod 4b, the vertical rod 4a can directly support the mesh material 1 of the expanded metal 1a in the longitudinal direction. However, although not shown, the horizontal rod 4b can also be arranged above the vertical rod 4a. (Vertical rod 4a)

[0050] The vertical rod 4a is a mounting rod 4 passed through the longitudinal direction of the gantry 3, maintains the strength of the gantry 3 in the longitudinal direction, and stably supports the gantry 3 together with the horizontal rod 4b. It is preferable to use a plurality of vertical rods 4a. As shown in FIG. 1, for example, by passing three vertical rods 4a under the net material 1, the expanded metal 1a of the net material 1 and the cultivation container 24 loaded thereon can be stably supported. Since the size of the expanded metal 1a is about 90 cm × 180 cm and it has a certain weight, by passing the vertical rods 4a near both ends and the middle in the short direction of the net material 1, sagging can be prevented and the net material 1 can be kept in a flat state. When the net material 1 is in a flat state, the cultivation container 24 on the net material 1 is stable, cultivation management can be easily performed, and the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a of the net material 1 is easily arranged at a predetermined position covered by the outer peripheral pipe 2.

[0051] The vertical rod 4a in Fig. 2 is a U-shaped member 20 having bent portions on both sides of a flat surface extending in the longitudinal direction. The U-shaped member 20 is made of metal and has strength due to the bent portions provided on both sides of the flat surface. It supports the expanded metal 1a from below and can maintain the longitudinal strength of the entire gantry 3. The bent portions of the U-shaped member 20 can be angled not only in a direction substantially perpendicular to the flat surface, but also in a direction narrowing in an inverted V shape (Fig. 2) from both sides of the flat surface, or in a direction spreading in a V shape from both sides of the flat surface. As shown in Fig. 2, further folding back on the outside or inside can further improve the strength of the U-shaped member 20. The U-shaped member 20 shown in Fig. 2 has a flat surface. By arranging this flat surface on the opposing surface to the expanded metal 1a, the expanded metal 1a can be stably supported. By applying a flat screw head or a washer to the intersection of the meshes of the expanded metal 1a, the expanded metal 1a and the vertical rod 4a can be easily fixed. During assembly, it can be screwed from above and the assembly is also easy. Also, the vertical rod 4a and the horizontal rod 4b can be fixed together to the expanded metal 1a by screwing or the like, or can be fixed to the expanded metal 1a separately. However, the fixing method between the expanded metal 1a of the mesh material 1 and the mounting rod 4 is not limited to this. Also, similar to other members such as the outer peripheral pipe 2 and the support leg 5, a metal pipe 8 can be used for the vertical rod 4a. In this case, when using metal pipes 8 of the same diameter and the same wall thickness, the members can be made common and the cost can be reduced. For fixing in this case, a binding tool, a U-shaped metal fitting, etc. can also be used. Metal pipes of different sizes can also be used. (Horizontal rod 4b)

[0052] As shown in FIG. 1, a plurality of horizontal rods 4b are provided at predetermined intervals in the longitudinal direction of the gantry 3 and are placed on the rods 4 passing through the gantry 3 in the lateral direction. The horizontal rods 4b maintain the strength of the gantry 3 in the lateral direction and, together with the vertical rods 4a, stably support the gantry 3. The horizontal rods 4b connected to the support legs 5 stably support the entire gantry 3 together with the vertical rods 4a. By connecting and fixing the horizontal rods 4b to the support legs 5, a substantially rectangular shape can be formed to stably support the gantry 3. By setting the length of the horizontal rods 4b to a predetermined length that matches the width of the gantry 3 in the lateral direction, together with the horizontal pipes 2b of the outer peripheral pipe 2, length adjustment is not required and the assembly of the gantry 3 becomes easy. The horizontal pipes 2b of the outer peripheral pipe 2 and the horizontal rods 4b can also be made of a common member. (Support leg 5)

[0053] As shown in FIG. 1, the support leg 5 can be made of a metal pipe 8 and can have a horizontal leg 5b installed on the ground and vertical legs 5a connected to both ends of the horizontal leg 5b via bending parts 5c. By bending a single metal pipe 8, the horizontal leg 5b, the vertical legs 5a, and the bending parts 5c can be formed. Since the horizontal leg 5b touches the ground to support the gantry 3, there is no need to drive a support column into the ground first. It is also possible to use each support leg 5 as an independent metal pipe 8 as a support column. However, using a metal pipe 8 bent into a substantially U-shape is better than when each independent metal pipe 8 serves as a support column, as the area where the support leg 5 touches the ground is wider, preventing it from sinking into the ground. By pre-bending according to the width of the mesh material 3 in the lateral direction, the horizontal leg 5b is set to a predetermined length and the vertical legs 5a are also set to a predetermined height, so that adjustment of the width and height of the support leg 5 is not required during assembly, and the assembly of the gantry 3 becomes easy. Also, if a single metal pipe 8 is bent into a substantially U-shape, no joint parts are required, the support legs can be made without the trouble of connection, and cost reduction can be achieved.

[0054] As shown in FIG. 2, the height of the mesh material 1 can be adjusted by the height of the horizontal rods 4b connected to the vertical legs 5a of the support legs 5. It can be adjusted according to the gender, physique, age, and preference of the operator. For example, it can be set to 60 cm to 130 cm, preferably 70 cm to 120 cm, and more preferably 80 cm to 110 cm.

[0055] Although not shown, the horizontal leg portion 5b bent in a substantially U shape and the vertical leg portion 5a can be separate members, and these can be connected to form the support leg 5. Further, the support leg 5 or the horizontal leg portion 5b and the horizontal pipe 2b of the outer peripheral pipe 2 can be made into a common member with a metal pipe 8 bent in a substantially U shape, for example.

[0056] Although not shown, the support leg 5 can also be formed by connecting two metal pipes 8 each bent in a substantially L shape at only one location. When the width of the gantry 3 in the short direction is different from a standard predetermined width, it can be accommodated by replacing only one of the L-shaped metal pipes 8 to be connected, and the cost can be reduced by commonizing the parts while meeting the user's needs.

[0057] Although not shown, a through hole can be provided in the horizontal leg portion 5b of the support leg 5, and a pin or the like passing through this through hole can be driven into the ground to fix it to the installation surface. Thereby, the stable support of the gantry 3 can be further enhanced. Further, the horizontal leg portion can be fixed to the ground with a U-shaped pin or the like without providing a through hole. (First coupler 11)

[0058] As shown in FIG. 4, the upper part of the support leg 5 and the end of the horizontal rod 2b are connected to each other via the first coupler 11. For example, the first coupler 11 can have a first U-shaped portion 11a bent along the surface of the support leg 5 and first connecting pieces 11b connected to both ends of the first U-shaped portion 11a and connected to the end of the horizontal rod 4b. The first U-shaped portion 11a and the first connecting pieces 11b are made of a single metal plate, the first U-shaped portion 11a is connected to the support leg 5, and the first connecting pieces 11b are connected to the end of the horizontal rod 4b. However, the first coupler 11 is not limited to this structure and shape. The first coupler 11 can be fixed by various methods such as screwing, pinning, locking portions, and fasteners (belts), and the method is not limited. By providing the first coupler 11, the end of the horizontal rod 4b and the vertical leg portion 5a of the support leg 5 can be easily connected and fixed. It is easy to assemble and leads to cost reduction. (Stopper mechanism 6)

[0059] As shown in FIG. 4, a stopper mechanism 6 for specifying the connection position of the first coupler 11 can be provided on the support leg 5. The stopper mechanism 6 can also be provided on the side of the first coupler 11. With the presence of the stopper mechanism 6, when assembling, it is not necessary to finely adjust the height of the connection position of the horizontal rod 4b by aligning the outer peripheral edge of the net material 1 and the height of the outer peripheral pipe 2, and the positioning and fixing of the support leg 5 and the horizontal rod 4b become easy. The assembly becomes easy, leading to cost reduction. As the stopper mechanism 6, for example, simply, in addition to providing screw holes for fixing the first coupler 11 with screws in advance in the first coupler 11 and the vertical leg 5a, a locking portion is provided on the vertical leg 5a side and the first coupler 11 is fitted into the hole, using a metal pipe 8 with a stepped portion, providing a step with a cylindrical fixture, a band fixture, a pad, etc. according to the outer diameter of the metal pipe 8, providing a mark, etc. are possible. However, it is not limited to these methods, and includes methods that serve as a mark for the connection position of the first coupler 11 when connecting the horizontal rod 4b to the support leg 5. (Second coupler 12)

[0060] As shown in FIG. 4, the upper end of the vertical pipe 2a and the support leg 5 are connected to each other via the second coupler 12. For example, the second coupler 12 can have a second U-shaped portion 12a that is U-shaped along the surface of the vertical pipe 2a, and second connection pieces 12b that are connected to both ends of the second U-shaped portion 12a and are connected to the upper end of the support leg 5. The second U-shaped portion 12a and the second connection pieces 12b are made of a single metal plate, the second U-shaped portion 12a is connected to the vertical pipe 2a, and the second connection pieces 12b are connected to the upper end portion of the support leg 5. However, the second coupler 12 is not limited to this structure and shape. The fixing of the second coupler 12 can be achieved by various methods such as screwing, pinning, locking portions, fastening fittings (belts), etc., and the method is not limited. By using the second coupler 12, the upper ends of the vertical pipe 2a and the support leg 5 can be easily connected and fixed. The assembly is easy, leading to cost reduction. When using metal pipes 8 with the same diameter and the same wall thickness, a common coupler can be used for the first coupler 11 and the second coupler 12. The members can be made common, achieving cost reduction.

[0061] As shown in FIGS. 2 and 4, the end of the horizontal rod 4b and the upper part of the support leg 5 are connected via the first connector 11, and the upper end of the vertical pipe 2a and the support leg 5 are connected via the second connector 12. The first connector 11 and the second connector 12 are connected via the support leg 5, and the vertical pipe 2a is connected to the horizontal rod 4b via the second connector 12, the support leg 5, and the first connector 11. The vertical rod 4a can be fixed on the horizontal rod 4b, and the mesh material 1 of the expanded metal 1a is fixed on the vertical rod 4a, and the outer peripheral pipe 2 is arranged at a position covering the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a. When the U-shaped member 20 is used for the vertical rod 4a, by making the height from the upper surface of the flat surface of the U-shaped member 20 to the installation surface of the U-shaped member 20 and the horizontal rod 4b lower than the diameter of the vertical pipe 2a, the outer peripheral pipe 2 can be easily arranged at a position covering the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a. As shown in FIG. 3B, it is easy to arrange the height (h) of the upper end of the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a at a position lower than the height (h1) of the upper end of the nearest outer peripheral pipe 2 and higher than the height (h2) of the lower end, fine adjustment of the height is not required, and assembly can be easily performed. Although not shown, when a metal pipe 8 is used for the vertical rod 4a, it is necessary to adjust the vertical pipe 2a of the outer peripheral pipe 2 at the connection position of the first connector 11 so as to be provided at a position covering the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal 1a, and it is preferable to use a stopper mechanism 6 or the like. (The third connector 13)

[0062] As shown in Fig. 4, the ends of the vertical pipes 2a can be connected via a third connector 13. For example, as the third connector 13, a connector that is cylindrical and connects the metal pipes 8 can be used. A cylindrical connector having an inner diameter adapted to the outer diameter of the metal pipe 8, or a connector having an outer diameter adapted to the inner diameter of the metal pipe 8 or a connecting piece, etc. can also be used. However, the third connector 15 is not limited to this configuration and shape. By adding the vertical pipes 2a made of the metal pipes 8 located on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the gantry 1 by the third connector 13 for connecting the vertical pipes 2a, it is possible to easily adjust the length in the longitudinal direction of the gantry 1 according to the needs of the user. By creating the gantry 1 of a predetermined length in unit units and arranging a plurality of vertical pipes 2a connected via the third connector 13 on both sides of the gantry 1, it is also possible to connect the gantry 1 units to each other. The members and the assembly process can be shared to achieve cost reduction. (Metal pipe 8)

[0063] For the gantry 3 for elevated cultivation of the present invention, metal pipes with an outer diameter of 18.6 mm to 19.6 mm and a wall thickness of 0.9 mm to 1.5 mm can be used for the outer peripheral pipe 2, the placing rod 4, and the support leg 5. By using metal pipes 8 with the same diameter and the same wall thickness, the members can be shared and the cost can be reduced. The first connector 11 and the second connector 12 can be shared. Usually, in the gantry for elevated cultivation used in a vinyl greenhouse, the strength of the metal pipe used in a large vinyl greenhouse is not usually required, and a metal pipe 8 with an outer diameter of 19.1 mm and a wall thickness of 1.2 mm (standard size), which is used in a small vinyl greenhouse or the like, is sufficient. This metal pipe 8 is a member that is inexpensive, easily available, lightweight, has sufficient strength as the gantry 3 of the present invention, and can also be bent.

[0064] However, in the present invention, other metal pipes, metal pipes with a larger outer diameter and a thicker wall thickness can also be used. For metal pipes that are not bent, not only round pipes but also square pipes can be used. Pipes made of different materials can also be used. Also, depending on the part or in part, different metal pipes can be used, and a stronger gantry for elevated cultivation can be provided.

[0065] By using the metal pipe 8 with the same diameter and the same wall thickness, the components can be made common, and the cost can be reduced. By bending the metal pipe 8, the members for connecting in the horizontal pipe 2b, the support leg 5, and the vertical sway prevention pipe 16 become unnecessary, the number of parts is small, and the cost can be reduced. In addition, with a simple structure and easy assembly in a short time, the construction cost can also be reduced. If it can be installed by the farmer himself through kit sales, the cost can be further reduced. Also, when replacing deteriorated parts or defective products, the commonality of parts, the small number of parts, and the fact that the members are inexpensive and easily available are advantages in terms of cost. The simple structure and the fact that the farmer can easily manage and replace it are also advantages. In fact, deterioration of parts and the like cannot be avoided, and even in an environment managed inside a vinyl house, the management and replacement of members and parts can occur regularly. [Embodiment 2]

[0066] FIG. 5 is a schematic perspective view showing a raised cultivation stand 30 according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. In the raised cultivation stand 30 shown in FIG. 5, a container set gap 10 for arranging the cultivation container 24 is formed between one vertical pipe 2a and the side edge of the net material 1. The horizontal rod 4b has a stepped shape, and has a horizontal portion 4c that supports the upper net material 1 and a placing portion 4e on which the cultivation container 24 arranged in the lower container set gap 10 is placed. The horizontal portion 4c and the placing portion 4e are connected via a stepped bending portion 4d, and the horizontal portion 4c, the placing portion 4e, and the stepped bending portion 4d are constituted by one metal pipe 8. (Container set gap 10)

[0067] FIG. 6 is a schematic perspective view showing a state in which a horizontal rod obtained by bending the metal pipe shown in FIG. 5 is connected. As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, a container set gap 10 is formed between one vertical pipe 2a and the side edge of the net material 1, and a cultivation container 24 is arranged in the container set gap 10. As shown in FIG. 7, the horizontal rod 4b has a stepped shape, and includes a horizontal portion 4c located on the lower surface of the net material 1, and a placing portion 4e that is located below the horizontal portion 4c and on which the cultivation container 24 arranged in the container set gap 10 is placed. Also as shown in FIG. 7, a bottom support bar 4f is connected onto the placing portion 4e, and the cultivation container 24 arranged in the container set gap 10 is supported from below.

[0068] The lateral width (W1) of the container set gap 10 can be set to an optimal width according to the cultivation container 24 to be installed. For example, it is preferably about 10 to 35 cm, more preferably about 14 to 25 cm according to the width of a generally used planter. The height difference (H) between the placing portion 4e and the horizontal portion 4c in the container set gap 10 can be set according to the height of the cultivation container 24 within the height range of the maximum gantry 30 (vertical leg 5a). For example, it is preferably about 3 cm to 25 cm, more preferably about 4 cm to 15 cm according to the height of a planter used for a general cultivation container 24.

[0069] The cultivation container 24 arranged in the container set gap 10 does not need to have a dedicated shape. It is not limited to a general planter. For example, various types and shapes of cultivation containers 24 such as a styrofoam box, a polypot, a plastic bag, or a non-woven fabric bag can be used. It is also possible to put cultivation soil in a plastic sheet, a non-woven fabric sheet, etc. and install it in the container set gap 10 as the cultivation container 24. (Horizontal rod 4b)

[0070] As shown in Fig. 6, the horizontal rod 4b has a stepped shape, and includes a horizontal portion 4c located on the lower surface of the mesh material 1 and a placing portion 4e located below the horizontal portion 4c and on which the cultivation container 24 arranged in the container set gap 10 is placed. As shown in the figure, the horizontal portion 4c and the placing portion 4e are connected via a stepped bending portion 4d, and the horizontal portion 4c, the placing portion 4e, and the stepped bending portion 4d are constituted by a single metal pipe 8. Both ends of the end portion of the placing portion 4e and the end portion of the horizontal portion 4c are respectively connected to the vertical leg portions 5a of the support legs 5, so that the placing portion 4e supports the cultivation container 24 arranged in the container set gap 10, and the horizontal portion 4c supports the mesh material 1.

[0071] By setting the length of the horizontal rod 4b to a predetermined length that matches the width of the gantry 30 in the short side direction, length adjustment becomes unnecessary, and assembly and installation can be easily performed. Further, the horizontal rod 4b has a horizontal portion 4c, a placing portion 4e, and a stepped bending portion 4d, and is constituted by a single metal pipe 8. Since the stepped bending portion 4d is formed by bending the metal pipe 8, positioning and fine adjustment of the height difference are unnecessary during assembly, and assembly and installation can be easily performed. Furthermore, it is not necessary to join three members with different lengths, namely the horizontal portion 4c, the placing portion 4e, and the stepped bending portion 4d therebetween, with joints, the number of parts can be reduced, and cost reduction can be achieved. (Bottom support bar 4f)

[0072] As shown in FIGS. 5 and 6, the bottom support bar 4f is connected to the placement portions 4e of the plurality of horizontal rods 4b in an intersecting posture, so that the cultivation container 24 disposed in the container set gap 10 can be loaded. As shown in FIG. 6, by connecting the bottom support bar 4f on the placement portion 4e, the cultivation container 24 installed in the longitudinal direction of the container set gap can be directly supported from below. Similar to the vertical rod 4a, a U-shaped member 20 having bent portions on both sides of a flat surface extending in the longitudinal direction can be used for the bottom support bar 4f. The U-shaped member 20 is light and has strength, and the commonization of the vertical rod 4a and the member can be achieved. As shown in FIG. 6, by arranging the U-shaped member 20 with the flat surface as the upper surface, the cultivation container 24 disposed in the container set gap 10 can be stably supported. By passing two U-shaped members 20, the horizontal posture of the cultivation container 24 can be maintained and stably supported. Further, by utilizing the flat surface of the U-shaped member 20, the bottom support bar 4f and the placement portion 4e can be easily fixed. It can be fixed from above the bottom support bar 4f, and the positioning and assembly of the fixing are easy. By connecting the bottom support bar 4f to the placement portion 4e and separately connecting the vertical rod 4a to the horizontal portion 4c, the strength of the entire gantry 30 is ensured and stable support is enabled.

[0073] By setting the cultivation container 24 on the lower mounting portion 4e formed in the container set gap 10, the cultivation container 24 can be placed at a position one step lower than the netting material 1, and the center of gravity of the entire gantry 30 is lowered, contributing to the stable support of the entire gantry 30. Also, by providing the container set gap 10 and arranging the cultivation container 24, the cultivation container 24 can be stably supported. In particular, the cultivation container 24 has its outer side surface supported by the vertical pipe 2a, its inner side surface supported by the side edge of the netting material 1, is sandwiched between guides that support it from both sides, and its lower part is supported from below by the bottom support bar 4f, so that the cultivation container 24 fits well and is prevented from falling or toppling. Therefore, even when some impact is inadvertently applied to the gantry 30 during work, the cultivation container 24 can be prevented from falling or toppling. The good fit of the cultivation container 24 means that the heavy cultivation container 24 filled with cultivation soil can be easily installed in the container set gap 10, and the work can be carried out with confidence. Also, for example, in addition to containers with a flat bottom such as plastic planters, containers lacking a sense of stability such as polypots and bags can be used. A net, sheet, etc. can also be installed between the vertical pipe 2a and the side edge of the expanded metal 1a. It is also possible to use a stopper along the outer diameter of the metal pipe 8 on the vertical pipe 2a side.

[0074] The above structure is suitable for cultivating plants that grow runners 23 from the mother plant 21a to propagate daughter plants 22b. For example, it can provide a growth environment suitable for strawberry cultivation and facilitate cultivation management. FIG. 7 is a vertical cross-sectional view showing an example of use of the gantry 30 shown in FIG. 5. As shown in FIG. 7, a step can be provided in the cultivation area, the upper surface of the netting material 1 can be the cultivation area for the daughter plants 21a, and the container set gap 10 can be the cultivation area for the mother plant 21a where the mother plant container 21 for cultivating the mother plant 21a is arranged.

[0075] By placing the parent plant 21a in the container set gap 10 on the lower mounting part 4e, the runner 23 from the parent plant 21a can extend horizontally (horizontal cultivation). The runner 23 is also called a stolon. As it grows while creeping on the ground and sprouts and takes root, another daughter plant 22a can grow from there, and this process is repeated. Not only from the parent plant 21a, but also multiple runners 23 can grow from the daughter plants 22a. In the case of strawberries, one parent plant 21a can be divided into about 10 to 30 plants. The runner 23 from the parent plant 21a is a vine that supplies a large amount of nutrients to the numerous daughter plants 22a and plays the role of an umbilical cord, affecting the growth of the daughter plants 22a. Therefore, it is important to keep the growth of the parent plant 21a and this runner 23 in a good state without stress. Through horizontal cultivation, the problems of vertical cultivation where the runner 23 droops can be avoided. The runner 23 can grow without stress such as moisture and sunlight, and by guiding the runner 23 onto the net material 1, cultivation management is also easy as the runner 23 does not get entangled. Severe water management is not required. The risk of the runner 23 touching or rubbing against the edge of the planter of the parent plant container 21 or physical damage due to heat or the like can be avoided. There is no need to place the parent plant container at a height of 2m or the like as in vertical cultivation, and the parent plants of strawberries, which are vulnerable to heat, are not exposed to a harsh environment, and measures such as air conditioning and sunlight are not required.

[0076] By setting the upper surface of the net material 1 as the cultivation area for the daughter plants 22a, as shown in Fig. 7, when the runner 23 is guided towards the net material 1, the parent plant 21a can be managed in the container set gap 10, and the daughter plants 22a can be managed on the net material 1. Therefore, mainly the parent plant can be managed from the container set gap 10 side of the gantry 1, and mainly the daughter plants 22a can be managed from the opposite net material 1 side, making the work easy. On the upper surface of the net material 1, which is the cultivation area for the daughter plants 22a, the daughter plant containers 21 can be freely arranged and moved, and cultivation management is easy. Since the cultivation area of the parent plant 21a is located at the lower level, the height of the parent plant 21a and the parent plant container 21 do not interfere with the work, and the plant condition can be easily observed and cultivation management can be easily carried out even from the parent plant container 21 side of the gantry 30.

[0077] Since the lateral width (W2) of the mesh material 1 is ensured to be wide enough to place a plurality of daughter plant containers in the width direction, the growth of the runner 23 extending horizontally is not hindered, and it can grow creeping on the ground like a stolon. Furthermore, since the lateral width (W2) of the mesh material 1 can be made wider than the lateral width (W1) of the container set gap 10, there is enough space for cultivating the daughter plants 22a. In the case of strawberries, since one parent plant 21a can be divided into about 10 to 30 daughter plants, it is important to have enough space for the runner 23 to extend horizontally in horizontal cultivation. Since the daughter plants 22a can be cultivated on the mesh material 1, containers such as polypots, trays, and planters can be used without limiting the type, size, and shape of the daughter plant containers 22. It is also possible to directly spread the cultivation soil on sheets made of vinyl or non-woven fabric. It can accommodate various cultivation methods. Since the placement location of the daughter plant containers 22 can be freely determined and moved, more space can be created. For example, while observing the growth states of the runner 23 and the daughter plants 22a, they can be placed in a daughter plant container 22 such as a polypot and arranged and moved to a free location. Cultivation management is easy and the work is also easy, such as leaving intervals so that the runners do not get entangled with each other to ensure sufficient sunlight, arranging them in a position suitable for watering, and moving them as needed. The degree of freedom of the cultivation method is expanded for the user.

[0078] The width (W2) of the mesh material 1 shown in Fig. 7 is, for example, preferably about 90 cm to 100 cm according to the standard size of the expanded metal 1a. However, the width can also be adjusted by cutting and adding the expanded metal 1a. [Embodiment 3]

[0079] FIG. 8 is a schematic perspective view showing a gantry 300 to which a longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 according to Embodiment 3 is connected. As shown in FIG. 8, the gantry 300 includes a longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 connected to the support legs 5 and the mounting rod 4. By providing the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16, it is possible to ensure the strength of the entire gantry 300 against the longitudinal rocking of the gantry 300, particularly when it exceeds a certain length, and enable stable support. A pair of longitudinal rocking prevention pipes 16 are arranged side by side and disposed on both sides in the longitudinal direction of the gantry 300, so that the gantry 300 can be supported in a balanced manner. (Longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16)

[0080] As shown in FIG. 8, the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 has a horizontal pipe portion 16a extending in the longitudinal direction of the mesh material 1 and a gusset portion 16b connected to the horizontal pipe portion 16a via an acute-angle bending portion 16c. The tip of the horizontal pipe portion 16a is connected to the horizontal leg portion 5b of the support leg 5, and the tip of the gusset portion 16b is connected to the cross rod 4b. Although not shown, the tip of the horizontal pipe portion 16a can be connected to the lower end or the bending portion 5c of the vertical leg portion 5 of the support leg 5a, and the tip of the gusset portion 16b can also be connected to the longitudinal rod 4a.

[0081] Generally, a gusset is a reinforcing member that enhances the strength of a structure and is a member that reinforces the structure by being obliquely inserted and connected between columns. For example, a gusset is arranged on the diagonal line of a quadrilateral formed by columns and beams to create a triangular structure and prevent deformation. As shown in FIG. 8, the tip of the gusset portion 16b of the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 is connected to the cross rod 4b, and the tip of the horizontal pipe portion 16a is connected to the horizontal leg portion 5b. Therefore, although it does not add a reinforcing material on the diagonal line of the quadrilateral, since the tip of the gusset portion 16b of the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 is connected to the cross rod 4b and the tip of the horizontal pipe portion 16a is connected to the horizontal leg portion 5b, when the gantry 300 is viewed from the side (when looking at the longitudinal direction of the gantry 300 from the side), a substantially triangular structure is created and reinforced, so it is used as the gusset portion 16b.

[0082] Although not shown, a through hole may be provided in the horizontal pipe portion 16a, and a pin or the like passing through the through hole may be driven into the ground to fix it to the installation surface. Thereby, the stable support of the gantry 300 can be further enhanced. Also, without providing a through hole, the horizontal leg portion can be fixed to the ground with a U-shaped pin or the like. (Inner support leg 5B)

[0083] As shown in FIG. 8, the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 is preferably connected to an inner support leg 5B located inside an end support leg 5A positioned at the longitudinal end of the gantry 300. Compared with the case where the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 is connected to the end support leg 5A located at the longitudinal end of the gantry 300, it can support the inner side more, and the portion of the gantry 300 outside the inner support leg 5B becomes a weight having longitudinal strength, so that the overall balance of the gantry 300 can be maintained. The effect of the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 of ensuring the strength of the entire gantry 300 against the longitudinal rocking of the gantry 300 and stable support can be more exerted. According to the longitudinal length of the gantry 300, the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 can also be added between the inner support legs 5B. By connecting the longitudinal rocking prevention pipe 16 to the inner support leg 5B, the number of the longitudinal rocking prevention pipes 16 can be reduced, and weight reduction and cost reduction can be achieved. (Fourth coupler 14, fifth coupler 15)

[0084] As shown in FIG. 9, a connecting tool for connecting the pitching prevention pipe 16 to the main body of the gantry 300 can be provided. It can be provided with either one or both of a fourth connecting tool 14 that connects the end of the rib portion 16b and the horizontal rod 4b, and a fifth connecting tool 15 that connects the end of the horizontal pipe portion 16a and the lower part of the support leg 5. As shown in FIG. 9, for example, the fourth connecting tool 14 can have a fourth U-shaped portion 14a that is U-shaped along the surface of the horizontal rod 4b, and fourth connecting pieces 14b that are connected to both ends of the fourth U-shaped portion 14a and are connected to the end of the rib portion 16b. The fourth U-shaped portion 14a and the fourth connecting pieces 14b are made of a single metal plate, the fourth U-shaped portion 14a is connected to the horizontal rod 4b, and the fourth connecting pieces 14b are connected to the end of the rib portion 16b. Similarly, for example, the fifth connecting tool 15 can have a fifth U-shaped portion 15a that is U-shaped along the surface of the lower part of the support leg 5, and fifth connecting pieces 15b that are connected to both ends of the fifth U-shaped portion 15a and are connected to the end of the horizontal pipe portion 16a. The fifth U-shaped portion 15a and the fifth connecting pieces 15b are made of a single metal plate, the fifth U-shaped portion 15a is connected to the lower part of the support leg 5, the fifth connecting pieces 15b are connected to the end of the horizontal pipe portion 16a, and the fifth connecting pieces 15b are connected to the lower part of the support leg 5. As shown in FIG. 9, the fifth U-shaped portion 15a is preferably connected to the horizontal leg portion 5b of the support leg 5, but it can also be connected to the lower part of the vertical leg portion 5a or the bent portion 5c.

[0085] The fixing of the fourth connecting tool 14 and the fifth connecting tool 15 can be achieved by various methods such as pinning, locking parts, and fasteners (belts) in addition to simply screwing, and the method is not limited. By using the fourth connecting tool 14 and the fifth connecting tool 15, the connection and fixation of the pitching prevention pipe 16 can be easily achieved, the assembly is easy, and it leads to cost reduction. When using metal pipes 8 with the same diameter and the same wall thickness, a common connecting tool can be used for the first connecting tool 11, the second connecting tool 12, the fourth connecting tool 14, and the fifth connecting tool 15. The members can be made common, and cost reduction can be achieved.

Industrial Applicability

[0086] The pedestal for elevated cultivation of the present invention is suitably used for raising seedlings of plants that grow by runners such as strawberries.

Explanation of Signs

[0087] 1…Mesh material 1a…Expanded metal 2…Outer peripheral pipe 2a…Vertical pipe 2b…Horizontal pipe 2c…Bending part 3, 30, 300…Pedestal 4…Placing rod 4a…Vertical rod 4b…Horizontal rod 4c…Horizontal part 4d…Step bending part 4e…Placing part 4f…Bottom support bar 5…Support leg 5a…Vertical leg 5b…Horizontal leg 5c…Bending part 5A…End support leg 5B…Inner support leg 6…Stopper mechanism 8…Metal pipe 10…Container set gap 11…First connector 11a…First U-shaped part 11b…First connecting piece 12…Second connector 12a…Second U-shaped part 12b…Second connecting piece 13…Third connector 14…Fourth connector 14a…Fourth U-shaped part 14b…Fourth connecting piece 15…Fifth connector 15a…Fifth U-shaped part 15b…Fifth connecting piece 16…Vertical sway prevention pipe 16a…Horizontal pipe part 16b…Reinforcing part 16c…Bending part 20…C-shaped member 21…Mother plant container 21a…parent strain 22…daughter plant container 22a…daughter plant 23…runner 24…cultivation container L…tangent line on the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral pipe… h…height of the upper end of the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal h1, h2…height of the upper end of the outer peripheral pipe W1…lateral width of the container set gap W2…lateral width of the net material H…height difference between the placing part and the horizontal part

Claims

1. A stand for elevated cultivation of plants, comprising: A rectangular wire mesh extending in the longitudinal direction with a predetermined width for placing cultivation containers; A metal outer peripheral pipe provided at a position covering the outer periphery of the wire mesh; A placing rod on which the wire mesh is placed; A plurality of support legs connected to the placing rod and arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the wire mesh; The wire mesh is expanded metal; The placing rod: A vertical rod extending in the longitudinal direction of the wire mesh; A plurality of horizontal rods arranged at intervals in the longitudinal direction of the vertical rod and extending in the lateral direction of the wire mesh; The horizontal rods are connected to the vertical rod in an intersecting posture and both ends are connected to the support legs; The outer peripheral pipe is a metal pipe; A vertical pipe covering the longitudinal direction of the outer periphery of the expanded metal which is the wire mesh; A horizontal pipe connected to the end of the vertical pipe and covering the lateral direction of the outer periphery of the expanded metal which is the wire mesh; The vertical pipe is connected to the support leg, and the stand for elevated cultivation of plants is characterized by this.

2. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to Claim 1, wherein: The corner part of the outer peripheral pipe is a bent part formed by bending the metal pipe, and the stand for elevated cultivation of plants is characterized by this.

3. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to Claim 1 or 2, wherein: The outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal extends in the radial direction outward from the center of the nearest outer peripheral pipe and is arranged below the tangent line (L) direction at the intersection of the inclined surface with an elevation angle of 45 degrees with respect to the horizontal plane and the outer peripheral surface of the outer peripheral pipe, and the stand for elevated cultivation of plants is characterized by this.

4. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to any one of Claims 1 to 3, wherein: The vertical rod is a U-shaped member having bent parts on both sides of a flat surface extending in the longitudinal direction, and the stand for elevated cultivation of plants is characterized by this.

5. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to any one of Claims 1 to 4, wherein: A container set gap for placing a cultivation container is formed between one of the vertical pipes and the side edge of the wire mesh; The horizontal rod has a stepped shape; An upper horizontal part for supporting the wire mesh; A lower placing part for placing the cultivation container arranged in the container set gap. The horizontal part and the placing part are connected via a stepped bending part, and the horizontal part, the placing part, and the stepped bending part are formed of a single metal pipe, which is a feature of the stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

6. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to claim 5, is adapted to cultivate plants that propagate daughter plants from parent plants, wherein the upper surface of the wire mesh is the cultivation area for daughter plants for cultivating daughter plants, and the container set gap is the cultivation area for parent plants for arranging parent plant containers for cultivating parent plants, which is a feature of the stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

7. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to claim 5 or 6, wherein the height difference (H) between the placing part and the horizontal part is 4 cm to 15 cm, which is a feature of the stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

8. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the support legs are made of metal pipes, the metal pipes have a horizontal leg portion installed on the ground and vertical leg portions connected to both ends of the horizontal leg portion via bending portions, and the horizontal leg portion, the vertical leg portion, and the bending portion are formed of a single metal pipe that has been bent, which is a feature of the stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

9. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to any one of claims 1 to 8, further comprising a first connector for connecting the upper part of the support leg and the end of the horizontal rod, a second connector for connecting the vertical pipe and the upper end of the support leg, and is provided with the vertical pipe is connected to the horizontal rod via the second connector, the support leg, and the first connector, the vertical rod is fixed on the horizontal rod, the expanded metal wire mesh is fixed on the vertical rod, and the outer peripheral pipe is arranged at a position covering the outer peripheral edge of the expanded metal, which is a feature of the stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

10. The stand for elevated cultivation of plants according to any one of claims 1 to 9, further comprising a vertical sway prevention pipe connected to the support leg and the placing rod, the vertical sway prevention pipe has a horizontal pipe portion extending in the longitudinal direction of the wire mesh, and a diagonal bracing portion connected to the horizontal pipe portion via an acute-angled bending portion, the tip of the horizontal pipe portion is connected to the lower end portion of the support leg, and the tip of the diagonal bracing portion is connected to the horizontal rod, which is a feature of the stand for elevated cultivation of plants.

11. A pedestal for elevated cultivation of plants according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the outer diameter of the metal pipe is 18.6 mm to 19.6 mm, and the wall thickness is 0.9 mm to 1.5 mm, characterized in that it is a pedestal for elevated cultivation of plants.

Images