Top-open gutter

Abstract

To provide a water-conducting open-top gutter for the cultivation of plants.SOLUTION: A water-conducting open-top gutter comprises at least one water space 2 formed by a double edge 1 and being closed at the top, or almost closed. The at least one separate water space 2 is open at the bottom of the gutter, wherein the water space 2 is formed by a partially double bottom and connected to the bottom of the gutter via a bottom gap 3.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a water-conducting open-top gutter for growing plants. The presented solution also relates to an open-top gutter for growing plants, in which irrigation water is conducted along the gutter and further from the water space of the gutter to a substrate. [Background technology]

[0002] We would like to explain here the characteristics of gutters intended for plant cultivation, especially for hydroponic applications (NFT, Nutrient Film Technique).

[0003] Lettuce and herbs have been grown using hydroponic techniques for over 30 years. The most efficient method is trough cultivation, or the so-called moving trough technique, in which plants are grown in small pots placed in the plant holes of a single trough. The troughs move on a track, and the distance between the troughs automatically increases according to the growth stage. A nutrient solution added to the irrigation water is dispensed at one end of the trough. From there, the solution flows down the sloped trough, irrigating the plants along its path, and then flows out the other end, where it is treated and recycled. This recirculation of the nutrient solution can be on continuously or in cycles of, for example, 10 minutes every two hours. The cycle settings depend, for example, on the dimensions of other elements in the system, the season, trough length, slope, and growing medium. Typically, troughs are 75 mm wide and 6 to 12 m long. This is particularly applicable to lettuce cultivation. For cucumber and tomato cultivation, troughs can be up to 100 m long and 20 to 30 cm wide.

[0004] The trough cultivation technique described above offers at least two fundamental improvements. First, plant density (plants per square meter) can be adjusted as the plants grow to ensure optimal use of growing space and, especially, lighting. Second, because the nutrient solution can be continuously administered to the trough at many times the required amount, growth is not affected even if the nutrient composition deviates significantly from the optimum, as the circulating solution constantly supplies new nutrients to the root system. Cultivation using a circulating solution is the most functional technique when several different plants are grown in the same circulating solution, or when the nutrient solution is not entirely optimal, eliminating the need to correct nutrient imbalances by rinsing. This type of situation is often encountered, for example, with organic fertilization, where nutrients are available but not in the correct proportions relative to their needs.

[0005] In trough cultivation, seedlings are grown individually by sowing seeds in small pots arranged in a honeycomb pattern. Irrigation is most commonly arranged as overhead irrigation with sprinklers. Seedlings are transferred into plant holes in the cultivation trough. The holes in the trough are designed according to the needs of the plants and cannot necessarily be altered later.

[0006] For growing a large number of different plants, especially small plants (baby leaf, microgreens), the best solution is to use so-called open-top troughs. Open-top troughs are completely open at the top, and the trough is filled with a medium such as peat or mineral wool without the use of separate pots. Seeds are sown as needed at the desired density. For cultivation, the troughs are placed on a trough production line system, moved, and irrigated at one end of the trough as described above. Advantages of open-top troughs include the absence of separate pots, the ability to vary seeding density as needed, no separate setup for growing seedlings, and the trough is easy to clean.

[0007] Problems associated with open-topped gutters include poor passage of irrigation water through the medium filling the gutters, the possibility of the gutters overflowing and some of the medium being washed away with the circulating solution, and uneven growth at the beginning and end of the gutters. All of these create technical and agronomic problems. Various methods have been developed to direct water through open-top gutters to solve the problems of the prior art. In one example, an open-top gutter is provided with a perforated insert tray, with the medium and plants placed at the top, allowing the nutrient solution to flow underneath the tray and be sought out by the plant roots. Another solution is to provide the gutter with a narrow section rather than an insert tray, with the medium and plants placed at the top, leaving a passage below for the water flow. The above examples have addressed the following problems, among others: Uneven growth caused by variations in the quality of the medium in practice, - complex techniques for filling gutters and handling the medium; Sensitivity of performance to gutter slope, - structural changes during cultivation, Contact problems between water and the medium, Leakage of medium into the irrigation trench, causing blockages However, it has been observed.

[0008] The problem with open-top trough systems also involves the special case of fertilization, such as aquaponics, which combines fish farming with plant cultivation. It is feasible to combine the circulation of nutrients produced by fish farming and required by plants, as long as the amount of irrigation water recycled is several times greater than the amount needed for irrigation. Some of the minerals in the fish feed consumed by the fish are excreted in the form of water-soluble nutrients into the water used for fish farming. These nutrients are highly useful for plants. The problem is that the water used for fish farming is dilute (approximately 0.6 mS / cm) compared to the optimal nutrient concentration in irrigation water for plants (approximately 2 mS / cm, given the conductivity). This is one reason why the irrigation water must be supplied in volumes several times greater than the water needed, leading to water conduction problems in open-top trough systems, where the appropriate amount of water cannot pass through the medium, causing overflow or otherwise nutrient deficiencies.

[0009] The document US Patent No. 4,075,785 A presents a method for cultivating plants in troughs: the irrigation water does not always flow through the medium in the trough as desired, and the moisture content of the medium remains uneven, which will result in over-watering or otherwise drying out, causing a reduction in crop yield.

[0010] Document WO 2012 / 172187 A1 describes a cultivation system with special open-topped troughs suitable and intended for solid media such as sheets of mineral wool.

[0011] In the solution according to WO 2016 / 151186 A1, the cultivation trough is divided into two parts by a partition structure, and the irrigation water is intended to flow mainly through a tunnel extending below the culture medium and through a central space formed by the partition structure.

[0012] Open-topped gutters intended for plant cultivation, with a water space formed by the edge or bottom of the gutters, are presented in US 2005 / 0246956 A1 and US 4255898 A. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0013] [Patent Document 1] U.S. Patent No. 4,075,785A [Patent Document 2] International Publication No. 2012 / 172187A1 [Patent Document 3] International Publication No. 2016 / 151186A1 [Patent Document 4] U.S. Patent No. 2005 / 0246956A1 [Patent Document 5] U.S. Patent No. 4,255,898A Summary of the Invention

[0014] The proposed solution for a water-conducting open-top trough is presented in claim 1 of the accompanying patent claims.

[0015] Open-top troughs are used for plant cultivation.

[0016] The trough is an open-top trough for growing plants, comprising a space bounded by two side walls and a bottom wall and divided into trough-like sections by at least one partition wall. The partition wall comprises at least one water space formed by a double wall and open to the bottom of the trough. In some embodiments, the water space is closed or nearly closed at the top.

[0017] In prior art open-top troughs, the medium constitutes an obstacle to the sufficient flow of irrigation water. Typically, in hydroponic cultivation, the amount of irrigation water supplied is many times greater than the amount required to ensure either uniformity of irrigation or sufficient supply of nutrients. For example, in aquaponics systems, i.e., the combination of fish farming and plant cultivation, the dilute irrigation water from the fish farming must be supplied in an amount many times greater than the water demand of the plants to meet their need for nutrients.

[0018] The water-conducting open-top trough of the present solution solves the above problems.

[0019] For example, in aquaponics systems, open-top troughs with conveying water can be used to supply dilute water from fish farms in quantities many times greater than the water demand of the plants to meet their nutrient needs, regardless of the medium.

[0020] Nutrient solution can easily be supplied in doses many times greater than the water demand, and the water will be rapidly absorbed by the medium along the entire length of the trough.

[0021] In some embodiments, the nutrient solution used to irrigate the plants is derived, at least in part, from nutrients in fertilizer, fish culture water, bioreactors, other process main or side streams, or combinations thereof.

[0022] In some embodiments, the medium used to grow plants within the trough is horticultural peat, mineral wool, glass wool, peat moss (sphagnum moss), wood fiber, coconut fiber, hemp fiber, or a mixture comprising at least one of the foregoing medium components.

[0023] In some embodiments, the troughs are made by bending metal or composite materials, while in other embodiments, the troughs are made by extrusion of plastic, aluminum, or other composites. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0024] [Figure 1] 1 shows an embodiment of a gutter. [Figure 2] 10 shows another embodiment of the gutter. [Figure 3] 10 illustrates an alternative embodiment of the gutter. [Figure 4] 10 shows another alternative embodiment of the gutter. [Figure 5] 10 shows another alternative embodiment of the trough. [Figure 6] 10 shows an alternative and additional embodiment of the gutter. [Figure 7] 1 shows the structure of one embodiment of a gutter. [Figure 8] 10 shows the construction of an alternative embodiment of the gutter. [Figure 9] 1 shows an example structure of a trough according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0025] Next, several open-top water-conducting gutters will be discussed with reference to FIGS.

[0026] FIG. 1 shows one typical shape of a water-conducting open-top trough with a length selected according to need, conveniently between 1 m and 20 m.

[0027] FIG. 2 shows advantageous cross sections and dimensions of alternative types (a) to (e) of open-type water-conducting gutters.

[0028] The water conducting section is formed by a double edge 1, the inner edge of which opens slightly towards the bottom, leaving a bottom gap 3 for conveying water between the water space 2 and the medium.

[0029] The double edge 1 may be provided on both sides or only on one side. For long gutters, for example longer than 6 m, and also for wide gutters, for example wider than 60 mm, it is advantageous to provide double edges 1 on both sides to ensure irrigation and structural support.

[0030] The trough may further comprise lower ribs 4 and other structural details, reinforcements, etc., for example, to facilitate trough movement and to support the trough structure. In some embodiments, the trough comprises lower ribs 4 or other additional elements related to trough movement, strength, or functionality.

[0031] Alternative (e) in Figure 2 shows a convenient design and dimensioning that allows for two rows of seeds to be planted in the same trough, and the dimensioning is also directly compatible with most existing thinning systems. The curved shape of the bottom makes it easier for water to be conducted from the water space to the growing medium.

[0032] In some embodiments, the trough has double edges on either both sides or only one side. After the trough is filled with medium, water flows through the water space 2 enclosed by the double edges 1, quickly irrigating the medium along the length of the trough through the bottom gap 3 without dragging the medium along with it.

[0033] Lettuce and iceberg lettuce grow well in open-top troughs with water-conducting channels and produce good yields if plant density is adjusted according to need.

[0034] At the start of cultivation, the open-top troughs (see Figure 1) are filled with, for example, horticultural peat, loosely tamped, and then seeded at the desired density. For this initial step of filling and sowing, automatic filling and sowing machines are commonly available, and such machines are adapted for use with open-top troughs after minor modifications. Examples of brand names for filling and sowing equipment include V-Mosa, Hortimat, Mayer, Urbinati, Visser, Javo, DaRos, and Punnet.

[0035] After the sowing process, the troughs are moved to the cultivation site and irrigated at one end by a conventional trough irrigation nozzle (e.g., Netafim Maxi CNL, 12 liters per hour). This supply end is preferably provided with a plug to close the end of the trough. From the supply end, the water is partially absorbed into the medium, flows mainly through the water space 2 enclosed by the double rim 1, and continues down the trough, irrigating the medium almost simultaneously along the entire length of the trough. After the initial irrigation, for example, over a 10-minute period, the troughs are irrigated again as needed. The water attempts to exit from the other end of the trough, whereby an outlet is conveniently provided, for example, by bending the bottom downward. At the beginning of cultivation, the troughs may be placed adjacent to each other, with the distance between them increasing as the plants grow. Open-top troughs with water-conducting systems can be more efficient than conventional closed troughs, especially in the production of small plants.

[0036] Compared to prior art gutters, the difference is that, for example, the double edge 1 constitutes a tunnel-shaped water passage that runs all the way from bottom to top parallel to the growing medium for the free flow of water. From this space, the water has a direct connection to the growing medium via the bottom gap 3. If the growing medium has a poor water absorption capacity, the water level will rise within the double edge 1, so that the water will be forced by gravity to penetrate into the growing medium and further within the reach of the roots.

[0037] The water flows mainly through the tunnel-like water space 2 surrounded by the edge in the direction of the gutter, and not so much into the growing medium so that the growing medium is not drawn into the circulating water. The water space 2 is connected to the growing medium through a narrow gap. Both the width of the water space 2 and the width of the bottom gap 3 are essential factors for the functionality of the gutter. The width of the water space 2 is advantageously 5 to 10 mm, and the size of the gap is advantageously 1 to 2 mm, so that the growing medium does not enter the water space 2, the root system tends to remain in the growing medium, and only the water passes through the gap.

[0038] The same double-edged structure 1 can be replicated for different trough sizes. The trough width can be selected according to the desired plant size. For the smallest plants, so-called microgreens, a narrow trough width of around 30 mm will suffice, given the maximum seeding density during initial cultivation. Plant density is an important factor for the profitability of cultivation, especially when cultivation is carried out partially or entirely under artificial lighting. In the Nordic countries, the most commonly used trough model has a width of around 75 mm, while in Central Europe, for example, special trough widths of 100 to 140 mm are commonly used.

[0039] Productivity in open-topped gutters with a standard width of 75 mm can be improved by sowing several adjacent rows in the gutter if the gutter has a double-rimmed design that carries water through the gutter and allows for its absorption into the medium almost simultaneously along the entire length of the gutter. Without the double rim, the passage of water through the entire length of the gutter would be very slow, with only the medium passing through.

[0040] 3, 4, 5, and 6, several alternative open-topped water-conducting gutters will now be discussed.

[0041] Figures 3 and 4 show a simple design of a water conducting open top trough with a length selected according to need, conveniently between 1m and 20m.

[0042] FIG. 5 shows advantageous cross sections of the water-conducting open-top trough, namely alternatives (a) to (h).

[0043] The water conveyance section, i.e., the water space 2, is formed by a double structure, either a double rim 1 or a partial double bottom.

[0044] The double structure may be provided on one side or on both sides, as shown for example in alternatives (f)-(h) of Figure 5. The double structure is provided with a connection, i.e. a bottom gap 3, for conducting water between the water space 2 and the rest of the trough.

[0045] For long gutters, e.g., longer than 6 m, and similarly for wide gutters, e.g., wider than 60 mm, it is advantageous to provide double edges 1 on both sides to ensure irrigation and structural support. The gutter may further include lower ribs 4 or other structural details, reinforcements, etc., for example, to facilitate movement of the gutter and to support the gutter structure. In some embodiments, the gutter includes lower ribs 4 and other additional elements related to movement, strength, or functionality of the gutter.

[0046] With a width of about 75 mm, the cross-sectional shape of Figure 5 is suitable for most existing thinning systems. In alternative shapes (f)-(h) of Figure 5, the curved shape of the bottom facilitates the transfer of water from the water space 2 to the culture medium.

[0047] Alternatives (f)-(h) of Figure 5 show embodiments of a trough with double edges 1 on both sides. After the trough is filled with culture medium, water flows through the water space 2 enclosed by the double edges 1, quickly irrigating the culture medium along the entire length of the trough through the bottom gap 3 without dragging the culture medium along with the flow.

[0048] Using these troughs, cultivation is started as already explained above with reference to FIG. 1, after sowing the troughs are moved and irrigation, including initial irrigation, is carried out.

[0049] Among other features, this trough differs from prior art troughs in that the double structure forms a tunnel-shaped water space 2 for the flow of water parallel to the growing medium. From this space, the water has a direct connection to the growing medium via the bottom gap 3. The water is absorbed into the growing medium and then reaches a point within reach of the root system. The water flows primarily through the water space 2 in the direction of the trough, but not so much into the growing medium, so that the medium is not drawn into the circulating water. The size of the water space 2 and the width of the bottom gap 3 are both essential factors for the functionality of the trough. The water space 2 is preferably narrow so that the water can contact the bottom gap 3 and further the growing medium along the entire length of the trough. For example, in a trough for growing lettuce, the width of the water space 2 is preferably 5 to 10 mm. The gap width can be selected according to need. For cultivation troughs, the gap is preferably 2 to 5 mm to facilitate cleaning. It is possible to make the gaps so narrow that the roots cannot grow through them, even narrower than 0.1 mm, so that the root system will remain within the medium and only the water will pass through the gaps. This may be necessary, especially for long-term cultivation.

[0050] The same double structure can be replicated in different trough sizes. The trough width can be selected according to the desired plant size. For the smallest plants, so-called microgreens, a narrow trough width of around 30 mm will suffice, provided the maximum seeding density is maintained during initial cultivation. For tomatoes and cucumbers, the trough width is approximately 200 mm. Plant density is an important factor for the profitability of cultivation, especially when cultivation is carried out partially or entirely under artificial light. In this case, the initial seeding density must be high, and the seeding density can be reduced by gradually increasing the spacing of the troughs as the plants grow. The most common type of trough used for growing lettuce in the Nordic countries is a perforated trough with a width of around 75 mm.

[0051] In the embodiment of Figure 6, the open-top trough is filled with a medium 5 or medium sheet, and irrigation 6 for plants such as cucumbers or tomatoes is carried directly into the water space 2, with the nutrient solution being transported over the required length. Whereas irrigation in conventional cultivation is plant-specific, such as drip irrigation, in a conducting open-top trough, irrigation need only be supplied at the desired intervals to one end of the trough, or, if necessary, directly into the water space 2. In such applications, the medium should be highly absorbent, such as a mixture of moss and horticultural peat.

[0052] Next, several alternative open-top trough constructions will be discussed with reference to Figures 7, 8 and 9, which show cross sections of open-top troughs.

[0053] The following description of FIG. 7 relates specifically to the double-structured and double-edged open-top trough and its operation discussed above in this description.

[0054] As shown in Figures 7, 8, and 9, the open-top trough comprises a bottom wall 10 enclosing a trough-like space for the culture medium within the open trough, and two side walls 12 connected across the bottom wall 10. The bottom of the space is the bottom wall 10, on which the culture medium is placed. Each side wall 12 has its lower end fastened to the bottom wall 10, e.g., to an edge of the bottom wall 10. The bottom wall 10 and the side walls 12 may be joined seamlessly to each other to form a unitary structure. In use, the bottom wall 10 may be, for example, substantially horizontal, and the side walls 12 may be substantially vertical or slightly inclined. At least one rib 4 may be fastened to the bottom wall 10 and / or form an extension of the lower end of the side walls 12.

[0055] As shown in FIG. 7, a double edge 1 is formed in the open-top gutter by providing a partition 14 as an extension of the side wall 12 that extends toward the bottom wall 10. In another embodiment, the partition 14 extends toward the other side wall 12. An end of the partition 14, e.g., its outermost end, is spaced from the other side wall 12. An end of the partition 14, e.g., the lower end, is spaced from the bottom wall 10 so that a bottom gap 3 is formed between the end of the partition 14 and the bottom wall 10, e.g., when viewed vertically in use. A water space 2 is formed between the partition 14 and the side wall 12, e.g., when viewed horizontally in use. The bottom wall 10 functions as a bottom for the water space 2 and as a bottom for the bottom gap 3.

[0056] The sidewall 12 and bulkhead 14 are seamlessly joined to one another to form a unitary structure. When an open-top trough is used, the bulkhead 14 may be, for example, substantially vertical or slightly sloped.

[0057] For example, the bottom wall 10 extends straight and uniformly from the water space 2 to the bottom gap 3 and beyond.

[0058] In some embodiments, the vertical height of the water space 2 relative to the bottom wall 10 is at least three-fifths or at least two-thirds the height of the side walls 12 .

[0059] The bulkhead 14 may be fastened to the side wall 12, for example, at or near the top of the side wall 12, so that the bulkhead 14 forms a branch of the side wall 12. Alternatively, the bulkhead 14 may be connected to the top of the side wall 12 at a point that is a greater distance from the bottom wall 10 than the distance from the top of the side wall 12, or at a point that is a vertical distance from the bottom wall 10 that is at least three-fifths or at least two-thirds the height of the side wall 12.

[0060] The partition 14 may be provided with a section, for example at its end near its side wall 12 and / or at its lower end, that extends away from the main part of the partition 14. For example, at the bottom gap 3, the section at the lower end of the partition 14 may be inclined relative to the bottom wall 10 or parallel to the bottom wall 10.

[0061] The side walls 12 and bottom wall 14 described above combine to form the double structure and double rim.

[0062] The following description of FIG. 8 relates specifically to the open-top trough with double construction and partial double bottom discussed above in this description and its operation.

[0063] As shown in FIG. 8, a partial double bottom is formed in the open-top trough by extending the intermediate bottom 16 toward the other side wall 12 as an extension of the side wall 12. In one embodiment, the intermediate bottom 16 extends toward the bottom wall 10. An end of the intermediate bottom 16, e.g., its outer end, is spaced from the other side wall 12 and only partially covers the bottom wall 10. The end of the intermediate bottom 16 is spaced from the bottom wall 10 so that a bottom gap 3 is formed between the end of the intermediate bottom 16 and the bottom wall 10, e.g., when viewed vertically in use. A water space 2 is formed between the intermediate bottom 16 and the bottom wall 10, e.g., when viewed vertically in use. The bottom wall 10 functions as a bottom for the water space 2 and as a bottom for the bottom gap 3.

[0064] The sidewalls 12 and the mid-bottom 16 are seamlessly joined to one another to form a unitary structure. When an open-top trough is in use, the mid-bottom 16 may be, for example, substantially horizontal or slightly sloped.

[0065] For example, the bottom wall 10 extends straight and uniformly from the water space 2 to the bottom gap 3 and beyond.

[0066] In some embodiments, the vertical height of the water space 2 relative to the bottom wall 10 is no more than two-fifths or one-third of the height of the side walls 12 .

[0067] The intermediate bottom 16 may be connected to the bottom wall 10 or to the side wall 12, such that the intermediate bottom 16 constitutes, for example, a branch of the bottom wall 10 or the side wall 12. Alternatively, the intermediate bottom 16 may be connected to the side wall 12 at a point that is less distant from the bottom wall 10 than from the top of the side wall 12, or at a point that is less than two-fifths or one-third of the height of the side wall 12 from the bottom wall 10.

[0068] The intermediate bottom 16 may be provided with a section, for example at its end facing the side wall 12 or at its outermost end, that extends in a direction different from the main part of the intermediate bottom 16. For example, the section at the end facing the side wall 12 may be inclined relative to the side wall 12 or parallel to the side wall 12. The section may extend in contact with the side wall 12.

[0069] The bottom wall 10 and the intermediate bottom 16 together constitute the double structure and partial double bottom.

[0070] Any of the above-described open-top gutters with double construction, double edges, and / or partial double bottoms and their operation can be related to the open-top gutters discussed in the following description with respect to FIG. 9.

[0071] As shown in Figure 9, the open-top trough having the bottom wall 10 and side walls 12 described above may further include at least one partition wall 18 connected to and extending across the bottom wall 10, dividing the trough-like space of the open-top trough into adjacent trough-like compartments, e.g., at least two adjacent compartments. The partition wall 18 has its bottom fastened to, e.g., a central section of, the bottom wall 10. The bottom wall 10 and the partition wall 18 are seamlessly joined to each other to form a unitary structure. In use, the partition wall 18 may, for example, be substantially vertical.

[0072] The water space 2 is formed in the open-top trough by providing a partition wall 20 as an extension of the partition wall 18, extending toward either the bottom wall 10 or the side wall 12. An end of the partition wall 20, e.g., its outer end, is spaced from the side wall 12 and only partially covers the bottom wall 10. The end of the partition wall 20, e.g., its outer end, is spaced from the bottom wall 10 so that a bottom gap 3 is formed between the end of the partition wall 20 and the bottom wall 10, e.g., when viewed vertically in use. The water space 2 is formed between the partition wall 20 and the partition wall 18, e.g., when viewed horizontally in use. Additionally or alternatively, the water space 2 is formed between the partition wall 20 and the bottom wall 10, e.g., when viewed vertically in use. The bottom wall 10 functions as a bottom for the water space 2 and as a bottom for the bottom gap 3.

[0073] The partition wall 18 and bulkhead 20 may be seamlessly joined to one another to form a unitary structure. When using an open-top trough, the bulkhead 20 may be, for example, substantially vertical, substantially horizontal, or slightly sloped.

[0074] For example, the bottom wall 10 extends straight and uniformly from the water space 2 to the bottom gap 3 and beyond.

[0075] The bulkhead 20 is connected to the partition wall 18 at a point such as at or near the top thereof and / or in such a way that the bulkhead 20 constitutes a branch of the partition wall 18 .

[0076] The partition 20 may be provided with a section extending in a direction different from the main part of the partition 20, for example at its end on the side of the partition 18 or on the side of the bottom gap 3, for example at its outer end. For example, at the end of the partition 20 or the bottom gap 3, the section may be inclined or parallel to the bottom wall 10 or the partition 18.

[0077] A water space 2 of the type described above may be provided on either side of the dividing wall 18 with a respective bottom cavity 3 and bulkhead 20 .

[0078] The height of the partition wall 18 may correspond to or be less than the height of one or more of the side walls 12. In some embodiments, the vertical height of the partition wall 18 is less than one-half, two-fifths, or one-third the height of the side walls 12.

[0079] The above-mentioned bulkhead 20 can form the double structure and partial double bottom together with the bottom wall 10, and / or the bulkhead 20 can form the double structure and partial double bottom together with the partition wall 18. The bulkhead 20 and the partition wall 18 combine to form a double wall that forms the water space 2.

[0080] For example, the double wall is adapted to form a tunnel-shaped water space 2 for the flow of water adjacent to the culture medium. For example, the double wall is used to convey water, and it has a connection formed by a bottom gap 3 for conveying water between the water space 2 and other parts of the trough. For example, the double wall is provided on both sides or only on one side of the partition wall 18.

[0081] The embodiments described above do not bind the solutions presented, the solutions in question being presented in the accompanying claims.

[0082] [Aspect 1] An open-top trough for growing plants, comprising at least one water space (2) formed by a double edge (1) and closed or nearly closed at the top, An open-top gutter characterized in that the water space (2) is open at the bottom of the gutter. [Aspect 2] An open-top trough for growing plants, The open-top gutter is characterized in that it has at least one separate water space (2) formed by a partial double bottom and connected to the bottom of the gutter via a bottom gap (3). Aspect 3 An open-top trough for growing plants, comprising a space bounded by two side walls (12) and a bottom wall (10), and divided into trough-like compartments by at least one partition wall (18), The partition wall (18) is formed by a double wall and has at least one water space (2) that is open at the bottom of the gutter. Aspect 4 In the open-top gutter according to the first or third aspect, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the water space (2) is open from the bottom of the open-top gutter by 0.1 mm to 2 mm. Aspect 5 The open-top gutter according to any one of the first, second, or third aspects, The open-top gutter is characterized in that it is made of metal or composite material by bending processing. Aspect 6 The open-top gutter according to any one of the first, second, or third aspects, The open-topped trough is made by extrusion molding of plastic, aluminum, or other mixtures. Aspect 7 The open-top gutter according to any one of the first, second, or third aspects, The open-top gutter is characterized in that it is provided with a bottom rib (4). Aspect 8 The open-top gutter according to any one of the first, second, or third aspects, 1. An open-top gutter, characterized in that the open-top gutter is used for growing plants. Aspect 9 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 1, The double edge (1) is used to carry water, and the inner edge of the double edge (1) opens toward the bottom of the open-top gutter, forming a bottom gap (3) for carrying water between the water space (2) and the culture medium for the plants. Aspect 10 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 1, aspect 2, or aspect 3, The open-topped trough is characterized in that the medium used for the plants in the open-topped trough is horticultural peat, mineral wool, glass wool, sphagnum moss, wood fiber, coconut fiber, hemp fiber, or a mixture containing at least one of the medium constituents. Aspect 11 In the open-top gutter according to the first or third aspect, 1. An open-top trough, wherein the nutrient solution used to irrigate plants in the open-top trough is derived at least in part from nutrients in fertilizer, fish culture water, bioreactors, or combinations thereof. Aspect 12 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 1, An open-top gutter characterized in that the double edge (1) is provided on both edges of the open-top gutter or on only one edge. Aspect 13 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 1, aspect 2, or aspect 3, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the bottom of the open-top gutter has a curved shape intended to carry water from the water space (2) to the culture medium. Aspect 14 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 1, The double edge (1) is configured to form a tunnel-shaped water passage extending from the bottom to the top parallel to the culture medium for the free flow of water. Aspect 15 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 1, aspect 2, or aspect 3, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the width of the bottom gap (3) is 2 mm to 5 mm. Aspect 16 In the open-top gutter according to the first or third aspect, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the water space (2) is arranged so that when the open-top gutter is filled with a culture medium (5), water flows through the water space (2) and irrigates the culture medium (5) over the entire length of the open-top gutter via the bottom gap (3). Aspect 17 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 2, The double bottom is used to carry water, and the double bottom has a connection formed by the bottom gap (3) for carrying water between the water space (2) and other parts of the gutter. Aspect 18 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 2 or 3, 1. An open-top trough, wherein the nutrient solution used for irrigation in the open-top trough is derived at least in part from nutrients of fertilizer, fish culture water, bioreactor, potato fruit water, or combinations thereof. Aspect 19 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 2, An open-top gutter characterized in that a double bottom is provided on both sides or only one side of the open-top gutter. Aspect 20 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 2, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the double bottom is configured to form a tunnel-shaped water space (2) parallel to the culture medium for the flow of water. Aspect 21 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 2 or 3, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the water space (2) is configured in such a way that when the open-top gutter is filled with culture medium, the water comes into contact with the bottom gap (3) and also comes into contact with the culture medium over the entire length of the open-top gutter. Aspect 22 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 3, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the double wall is configured to form a tunnel-shaped water space (2) extending parallel to the culture medium for the flow of water. Aspect 23 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 3, The double wall is used to carry water, and the double wall has a connection formed by the bottom gap (3) for carrying water between the water space (2) and other parts of the gutter. Aspect 24 In the open-top gutter according to aspect 3, An open-top trough, characterized in that a double wall is provided on both sides or only one side of the partition wall (18) of the open-top trough. Aspect 25 In the use of open-top gutters in plant cultivation, Use of an open-topped gutter, characterized in that the open-topped gutter is used according to aspect 1 and / or aspect 2 and / or aspect 3. Aspect 26 In a method for cultivating plants, A method for growing plants in the open-topped trough according to claim 1, 2, or 3. [Explanation of symbols]

[0083] 1 Double Edge 2 Water space 3 Bottom gap 4 Lower rib 10 Bottom Wall 12 Side wall 14 Bulkhead 16 Mid-sole 18 Partition Wall 20 Bulkhead

Claims

1. An open-top trough for growing plants, comprising a space bounded by two side walls (12) and a bottom wall (10), and divided into trough-like compartments by at least one partition wall (18), The partition wall (18) is formed by a double wall consisting of a partition wall (20) and the partition wall (18) in combination, and has at least one water space (2) open at the bottom of the open-top trough; The partition wall (20) is provided as an extension of the partition wall (18) and extends toward either the bottom wall (10) or the side wall (12); The end of the partition wall (20) is spaced from the side wall (12) and only partially covers the bottom wall (10), or An open-top gutter, characterized in that an end of the partition wall (20) is spaced from the bottom wall (10) to form a bottom gap (3) between the end of the partition wall (20) and the bottom wall (10).

2. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top gutter is characterized in that the water space (2) is open from the bottom of the open-top gutter by 0.1 mm to 2 mm.

3. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-topped gutter is made of metal or composite material.

4. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-topped gutter is made of plastic or aluminum.

5. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, An open-top trough characterized in that the open-top trough is provided with a bottom rib (4).

6. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough further comprises a medium for plants; The open-top gutter is characterized in that the culture medium contains one or more of the following culture medium constituents: horticultural peat, mineral wool, glass wool, sphagnum moss, wood fiber, coconut fiber, and hemp fiber.

7. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough further comprises a medium for plants; The open-top gutter is characterized in that the bottom of the open-top gutter has a curved shape intended to carry water from the water space (2) to the culture medium.

8. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough further comprises a bottom gap (3) for conveying water between the water space (2) and other parts of the open-top trough; The open-top gutter is characterized in that the width of the bottom gap (3) is 2 mm to 5 mm.

9. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough further comprises a medium for plants and a bottom gap (3) for conveying water between the water space (2) and other parts of the open-top trough; The open-top gutter is characterized in that the water space (2) is arranged so that when the open-top gutter is filled with a culture medium (5), water flows through the water space (2) and irrigates the culture medium through the bottom gap (3) over the entire length of the open-top gutter.

10. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough further comprises a medium for plants and a bottom gap (3) for conveying water between the water space (2) and other parts of the open-top trough; The open-top gutter is characterized in that the water space (2) is configured in such a way that when the open-top gutter is filled with a culture medium, the water comes into contact with the bottom gap (3) and also comes into contact with the culture medium over the entire length of the open-top gutter.

11. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough further comprises a medium for plants; The open-top gutter is characterized in that the double wall is configured to form the water space (2) for the flow of water in a tunnel shape and extending parallel to the culture medium.

12. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, The open-top trough is characterized in that the double wall is for conveying water, and the double wall has a connection formed by the bottom gap (3) for conveying water between the water space (2) and other parts of the open-top trough.

13. The open-top gutter according to claim 1, An open-topped trough, characterized in that the double wall is provided on one or both sides of the partition wall (18).

14. In the use of open-top gutters in plant cultivation, 2. Use of an open-topped gutter, characterized in that the open-topped gutter according to claim 1 is used.

15. In a method for cultivating plants, 10. A method comprising cultivating plants in the open-top trough of claim 1.

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