Cultivation Equipment

Abstract

The present invention provides a cultivation device capable of efficiently cultivating a plant contained in a closed space. The cultivation device of the present invention comprises a plurality of housing units arranged along a predetermined arrangement direction, and a supply device that supplies a cultivation gas used for cultivating plants to the closed space, the plurality of housing units including a first end housing unit that is arranged furthest on the first direction side among the plurality of housing units, and other housing units that are arranged in a second direction from the first end housing unit, and the other housing units including a second end housing unit that is arranged furthest on the second direction side among the other housing units, the first end housing unit having a first internal space partitioned by a first wall portion and capable of accommodating a plant, and the second end housing unit having a second internal space partitioned by a second wall portion and capable of accommodating a plant, and when the plurality of housing units converge, the plurality of housing units partition a closed space in which the plant is cultivated.

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a growing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Conventionally, there is known a method for cultivating a plant housed in a closed space. The closed space is, for example, a space partitioned by partitions in a plant cultivation factory where plants are cultivated indoors. A plant breeder uses a cultivation shelf (e.g., a rack dedicated to plant cultivation, etc.) when cultivating the plant. The plant is placed on the cultivation shelf housed in the closed space. When the cultivation shelf is used, the closed space includes a cultivation space and a working space. The cultivation space is a space in which the cultivation shelf is arranged. The working space is a space necessary for the breeder to perform work (e.g., checking the cultivation state of the plant, harvesting the plant, etc.).

[0003] Here, conventionally, as a method for growing plants housed in a closed space, there is a method of supplying carbon dioxide into the closed space (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this method, carbon dioxide is supplied into the closed space to promote the growth of the plants housed in the closed space.

[0004] However, when this method is used in a closed space housing multiple cultivation shelves, carbon dioxide is supplied to the cultivation space and the working space. Of the cultivation space and the working space, the carbon dioxide supplied to the cultivation space is absorbed (reduced) by plants. In other words, the carbon dioxide supplied to the working space is not absorbed by plants. Therefore, the carbon dioxide supplied to the working space is wasted. Thus, the cultivation efficiency of this method is poor. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-250759 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a cultivation device capable of efficiently cultivating a plant contained in a closed space. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The cultivation device according to the present invention is a cultivation device for cultivating plants in a closed space, and includes a plurality of housing units arranged along a predetermined arrangement direction, and a supply device for supplying a cultivation gas used for cultivating plants to the closed space, in which one side of the arrangement direction is a first direction and the other side is a second direction, and the plurality of housing units include a first end housing unit that is arranged furthest on the first direction side among the plurality of housing units, and another housing unit that is arranged further in the second direction than the first end housing unit, and the other housing unit is arranged furthest on the second direction side among the other housing units. and a second end housing unit configured to be movable so that the first end housing unit has a first wall portion opening in a second direction and a first internal space partitioned by the first wall portion and capable of accommodating a plant, the second end housing unit has a second wall portion opening in the first direction and a second internal space partitioned by the second wall portion and capable of accommodating a plant, the second end housing unit being characterized in that the multiple housing units are movable so as to be convergent, and when the multiple housing units converge, the multiple housing units partition a closed space in which the plant is grown, the closed space including the first internal space and the second internal space. Effect of the Invention

[0008] The present invention can provide a cultivation device that can efficiently cultivate a plant contained in a closed space. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0009] [Figure 1] 1 is a schematic external view of a cultivation device according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Diagram 2] 2 is a functional block diagram of multiple units included in the training device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 3]2 is a schematic front view of a first unit provided in the cultivation device of FIG. 1. [Figure 4] 2 is a schematic front view of a third unit provided in the cultivation device of FIG. 1. [Diagram 5] 2 is a functional block diagram of a control device provided in the training device of FIG. 1. [Figure 6] 2 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the training device of FIG. 1. [Figure 7] 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a calculation process included in the operation of FIG. 6. [Figure 8] 7 is a flowchart showing another example of the calculation process included in the operation of FIG. 6. [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a schematic external view of the growth device in FIG. 1, showing a state in which multiple units provided in the growth device are not converged. [Figure 10] FIG. 2 is a schematic external view of a cultivation device according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of a plurality of units included in the training device of FIG. 10. [Figure 12] 11 is a schematic front view of a third unit provided in the cultivation device of FIG. 10. FIG. [Figure 13] 11 is a schematic external view of the growth device in FIG. 10, illustrating a state in which only a first unit and a second unit among a plurality of units included in the growth device. FIG. [Figure 14] FIG. 13 is a schematic diagram showing yet another embodiment of the cultivation device according to the present invention. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0010] An embodiment of a growing device according to the present invention (hereinafter referred to as "the device") will be described below with reference to the drawings.

[0011] The device includes a plurality of housing units. The plurality of housing units are arranged along a predetermined arrangement direction. A direction on one side of the predetermined arrangement direction is a first direction. A direction on the other side of the predetermined arrangement direction is a second direction. The second direction is a direction opposite to the first direction. All or a portion of the plurality of housing units converge to partition a closed space. The device grows a plant in the partitioned closed space.

[0012] The "closed space" houses plants.

[0013] A "plant" is grown by a grower in a closed space. The plant absorbs (reduces) gases (e.g., oxygen, carbon dioxide, etc.) in the closed space. The plant uses the absorbed gases in the closed space for its growth. The plant is, for example, a plant that can be grown hydroponically.

[0014] The "grower" uses this device to grow plants.

[0015] A "plant growth factory" is a facility where plants are grown indoors.

[0016] In the following description, "abutment" means "one member abutting and contacting another member."

[0017] In the following description, "converge" means that "multiple housing units that define one closed space come together in the closest state to each other." When each of the multiple housing units that define one closed space abuts against an adjacent housing unit, the multiple housing units converge. In other words, the converged multiple housing units define a closed space.

[0018] In the following description, when one housing unit abuts against an adjacent housing unit, the multiple housing units do not necessarily converge. That is, for example, when one housing unit (A) of two housing units (A and B) that define one closed space abuts against the adjacent housing unit (B), the two housing units (A and B) converge. When only one housing unit (C) of three housing units (C, D, and E) that define one closed space abuts against the adjacent housing unit (D), the three housing units (C, D, and E) do not converge.

[0019] In the following description, "upstream side" means "upstream side in the gas flow." "Downstream side" means "downstream side in the gas flow." In the following description, "intake" means "sucking in gas." "Supply" means "sending gas."

[0020] The following description is an example of the device being used in a plant growing factory.

[0021] ●Embodiment of the present device (1)● ●Configuration of this device (1) The configuration of this device is described below.

[0022] FIG. 1 is a schematic external view of the present device, showing an embodiment of the device. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of a plurality of housing units (hereinafter simply referred to as "units") included in the device.

[0023] This device S includes a first unit 1, a second unit 2, a third unit 3, a control device 4, and a rail R. In the following description, the first unit 1, the second unit 2, and the third unit 3 will be referred to as "each unit" unless otherwise specified.

[0024] Each unit is connected to the control device 4 via a network that uses a wired communication method or a wireless communication method. The units converge to partition a closed space CS.

[0025] The network is, for example, a communication network such as the Internet, a mobile communication network, a Local Area Network (LAN), a Wide Area Network (WAN), or Wi-Fi (registered trademark).

[0026] The floor surface F is the floor surface of the plant cultivation factory in which the present device S is used.

[0027] Rail R guides the movement of each unit. Rail R is laid parallel to floor F.

[0028] The first unit 1 is disposed closest to the first direction among the units. The first unit 1 is movable on a rail R. The first unit 1 includes a first wall portion 11, a first internal space S1, a device accommodating space DS, a first contact portion 12, a communication portion 13, a contact detection portion 14, a first concentration meter 15, and a supply device 16. The first unit 1 is a first end housing unit in the present invention.

[0029] The first wall portion 11 separates the first internal space S1 from the device accommodating space DS. The first wall portion 11 includes an opening 111.

[0030] The first internal space S1 accommodates a plant.

[0031] The device accommodating space DS accommodates the supply device 16 .

[0032] The opening 111 is disposed on the second direction side of the first wall portion 11. That is, the first wall portion 11 opens in the second direction.

[0033] The first contact portion 12 is disposed in the opening 111. The first contact portion 12 is capable of contacting a second contact portion 22a included in the second unit 2. That is, the first unit 1 is capable of contacting the second unit 2. The second contact portion 22a will be described in detail later.

[0034] The communication unit 13 communicates with the control device 4 via a network.

[0035] The contact detection unit 14 detects contact between the first unit 1 and the second unit 2. The specific operation of the contact detection unit 14 will be described later.

[0036] The first concentration meter 15 measures a first concentration. The first concentration meter 15 is disposed inside the first wall portion 11.

[0037] The "first concentration" is the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the gas in the closed space CS.

[0038] The second unit 2 is disposed between the first unit 1 and the third unit 3 among the units. The second unit 2 is movable on the rail R. The second unit 2 includes a second wall portion 21, second contact portions 22a, 22b, a communication portion 23, a contact detection portion 24, and a second internal space S2. The second unit 2 is an intermediate housing unit in the present invention.

[0039] The second wall portion 21 defines the second internal space S2. The second wall portion 21 includes openings 211a and 211b. The second wall portion 21 is an intermediate wall portion according to the present invention.

[0040] The second internal space S2 accommodates a plant. The second internal space S2 is an intermediate internal space in the present invention.

[0041] The opening 211a is disposed on the first direction side of the second wall portion 21. The shape and size of the opening 211a are the same as the shape and size of the opening 111, respectively.

[0042] The opening 211b is disposed on the second direction side of the second wall portion 21. That is, the second wall portion 21 is open in the first direction and the second direction.

[0043] The second contact portion 22a is disposed in the opening 211a. The second contact portion 22a is capable of contacting the first contact portion 12 of the first unit 1.

[0044] The second contact portion 22b is disposed in the opening 211b. The second contact portion 22b can come into contact with a third contact portion 32 included in the third unit 3. That is, the second unit 2 can come into contact with both the first unit 1 and the third unit 3. The third contact portion 32 will be described in detail later.

[0045] The communication unit 23 communicates with the control device 4 via the network.

[0046] The contact detection unit 24 detects contact between the first unit 1 and the second unit 2. The contact detection unit 24 detects contact between the second unit 2 and the third unit 3. A specific operation of the contact detection unit 24 will be described later.

[0047] The third unit 3 is disposed closest to the second direction among the units. The third unit 3 is movable on the rail R. The third unit 3 includes a third wall portion 31, a third contact portion 32, a communication portion 33, a contact detection portion 34, and a third internal space S3. The third unit 3 is a second end housing unit in the present invention.

[0048] The third wall portion 31 defines a third internal space S3. The third wall portion 31 includes an opening 311.

[0049] The third internal space S3 accommodates a plant. The third internal space S3 is the second internal space of the present invention.

[0050] The opening 311 is disposed on the first direction side of the third wall 31. That is, the third wall 31 opens in the first direction. The shape and size of the opening 311 are the same as the shape and size of the opening 211b.

[0051] The third contact portion 32 is disposed in the opening 311. The third contact portion 32 is capable of contacting the second contact portion 22b included in the second unit 2. That is, the third unit 3 is capable of contacting the second unit 2.

[0052] The communication unit 33 communicates with the control device 4 via the network.

[0053] The contact detection unit 34 detects contact between the third unit 3 and the second unit 2. The specific operation of the contact detection unit 34 will be described later.

[0054] FIG. 3 is a schematic front view of the first unit 1. As shown in FIG. The figure shows the first internal space S1 housing a plant. In the figure, the gas flow is indicated by thick arrows.

[0055] The supply device 16 generates a growth gas using outside air. The supply device 16 supplies the generated growth gas to the closed space CS. The supply device 16 is accommodated in the device accommodation space DS. The operation of the supply device 16 is controlled by the control device 4. The supply device 16 includes a blower 161, a concentration membrane 162, a pump 163, a flowmeter 164, and a second concentration meter 165. The details of the growth gas will be described later.

[0056] The closed space CS includes a first internal space S1, a second internal space S2, and a third internal space S3.

[0057] The "outside air" is the gas outside the closed space CS and outside the device housing space DS. The outside air includes carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen, and the like.

[0058] The blower 161 draws in outside air. The blower 161 sends the outside air drawn in by the blower 161 to the concentration membrane 162. The operation of the blower 161 is controlled by the control device 4. The blower 161 is disposed upstream of the concentration membrane 162 in the supply device 16.

[0059] The concentration membrane 162 allows the outside air to permeate. The concentration membrane 162 preferentially allows carbon dioxide to permeate among carbon dioxide, nitrogen, oxygen, and the like contained in the outside air. Therefore, the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the growth gas (gas flowing downstream of the concentration membrane 162) is higher than the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the outside air (gas flowing upstream of the concentration membrane 162). In other words, the concentration membrane 162 concentrates the carbon dioxide contained in the outside air to generate the growth gas. The concentration membrane 162 is disposed between the blower 161 and the pump 163 in the supply device 16. The concentration membrane 162 is, for example, a known membrane having excellent selectivity and permeability for carbon dioxide.

[0060] The "growth gas" is generated by the concentration membrane 162. The growth gas is the gas that has permeated the concentration membrane 162 out of the outside air sent from the blower 161 toward the concentration membrane 162.

[0061] The pump 163 reduces the pressure in the space downstream of the concentration membrane 162 in the supply device 16 to a predetermined pressure. The pressure in the space downstream of the concentration membrane 162 is lower than the pressure in the space upstream of the concentration membrane 162 in the supply device 16. The outside air sent from the blower 161 permeates the concentration membrane 162 due to the pressure difference between the front and rear of the concentration membrane 162. That is, the pump 163 sucks in the outside air sent from the blower 161. The pump 163 sends (supplies) the growth gas to the closed space CS. The operation of the pump 163 is controlled by the control device 4. The pump 163 is disposed between the concentration membrane 162 and the flow meter 164 in the supply device 16.

[0062] The flow meter 164 measures the air supply flow rate and the air supply time. The flow meter 164 is disposed between the pump 163 and the second concentration meter 165 in the supply device 16. The flow meter in the present invention is, for example, a thermal flow meter such as a thermoflow meter, an impeller type flow meter, or the like.

[0063] The "flow rate of gas sent" is the flow rate of the growth gas sent from the pump 163 to the closed space CS per unit time.

[0064] The "gas supply time" is the time during which the growth gas is supplied from the pump 163 to the closed space CS.

[0065] The second concentration meter 165 measures the second concentration. The second concentration meter 165 is disposed downstream of the flow meter 164 within the supply device 16.

[0066] The "second concentration" is the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the growth gas sent to the closed space CS from the pump 163. The second concentration is higher than the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the outside air.

[0067] FIG. 4 is a schematic front view of the third unit 3. As shown in FIG. This figure shows the third internal space S3 housing a plant. FIG. 5 is a functional block diagram of the control device 4.

[0068] The control device 4 controls the overall operation of the device S. The control device 4 includes a communication unit 41, a storage unit 42, a convergence detection unit 43, a notification unit 44, an operation control unit 45, a calculation unit 46, and a display unit 47.

[0069] The communication unit 41 communicates with each unit via the network.

[0070] In the following description, the first concentration meter 15, the second concentration meter 165, and the flow meter 164 are referred to as "each measuring instrument" unless otherwise specified. Information relating to values ​​measured by each measuring instrument (first concentration, second concentration, air supply time, air supply flow rate) is referred to as "each measurement information" unless otherwise specified.

[0071] The storage unit 42 stores information (e.g., each piece of measurement information) necessary for the operation of the entire device S. The storage unit 42 is, for example, a recording device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) or a solid state drive (SSD), or a semiconductor memory such as a random access memory (RAM).

[0072] The convergence detection unit 43 detects the convergence of each unit that defines the closed space CS. The convergence detection unit 43 detects the convergence of each unit when each of the contact detection units 14, 24, 34 detects the contact between two adjacent units. The convergence detection unit 43 does not detect the convergence of each unit when at least one of the contact detection units 14, 24, 34 does not detect the contact between two adjacent units. The convergence detection unit 43 calculates the convergence time based on the detection result.

[0073] "Convergence time" is the time it takes for each unit to converge.

[0074] The notification unit 44 determines whether or not the convergence detection unit 43 has detected the convergence of each unit. The notification unit 44 notifies the trainer whether or not each unit has converged.

[0075] The operation control unit 45 controls the overall operation of the present apparatus S (for example, the supply operation of the supply device 16, etc.) The operation control unit 45 is, for example, a microcomputer, a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit), or the like.

[0076] The "supply operation" is an operation in which the supply device 16 supplies the growth gas to the closed space CS. The operation control unit 45 controls the supply operation based on the detection result of the convergence detection unit 43. When the supply device 16 performs the supply operation, the blower 161 draws in outside air. When the supply device 16 performs the supply operation, the pump 163 sends the growth gas to the closed space CS. When the supply device 16 does not perform the supply operation, the blower 161 does not draw in outside air. When the supply device 16 does not perform the supply operation, the pump 163 does not send the growth gas to the closed space CS.

[0077] The calculation unit 46 acquires information stored in the memory unit 42. The calculation unit 46 calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the plant based on the information acquired by the calculation unit 46. The reduction amount "V" calculated based on the first concentration "c1", the second concentration "c2", the air supply flow rate "Q", and the air supply time "T1" is expressed by the following formula (1).

[0078] V = Q × T1 × (c2-c1) (1)

[0079] The reduction amount "V" calculated based on the first concentration "c1", the second concentration "c2", the air supply flow rate "Q", and the convergence time "T2" is expressed by the following formula (2).

[0080] V = Q × T2 × (c2-c1) (2)

[0081] The display unit 47 displays the amount of carbon dioxide reduction calculated by the calculation unit 46. The display unit 47 is a display. The display unit 47 is the reduction amount display unit of the present invention.

[0082] ● Operation of this device (1) The operation of the device S is explained below.

[0083] FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the operation of the device S.

[0084] First, the notification unit 44 determines whether or not the convergence detection unit 43 has detected the convergence of each unit (S1).

[0085] When the convergence detection unit 43 detects the convergence of each unit (S1: Yes), the notification unit 44 notifies the trainer that each unit has converged (S2).

[0086] Next, the operation control unit 45 determines whether or not the supply device 16 is supplying the growth gas (S3).

[0087] When the supply device 16 is supplying the growth gas (S3: Yes), the device S executes a calculation process (S4). The calculation process (S4) is a process for calculating the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the plant. The details of the calculation process (S4) will be described later.

[0088] Thereafter, the notification unit 44 determines whether or not the convergence detection unit 43 has detected the convergence of each unit (S1).

[0089] When the supply device 16 is not supplying the growth gas (S3: No), the operation control unit 45 causes the supply device 16 to start supplying the growth gas (S5).

[0090] Next, the apparatus S executes a calculation process (S4).

[0091] When the convergence detection unit 43 does not detect the convergence of each unit (S1: No), the notification unit 44 notifies the trainer that each unit has not converged (S6).

[0092] Next, the operation control unit 45 determines whether or not the supply device 16 is supplying the growth gas (S7).

[0093] When the supply device 16 is supplying the growth gas (S7: Yes), the operation control unit 45 causes the supply device 16 to stop supplying the growth gas (S8).

[0094] Thereafter, the notification unit 44 determines whether or not the convergence detection unit 43 has detected the convergence of each unit (S1).

[0095] When the supply device 16 is not supplying the growth gas (S7: No), the notification unit 44 again determines whether or not the convergence detection unit 43 has detected the convergence of each unit (S1).

[0096] In this way, the present apparatus S notifies whether each unit has converged or not based on the detection result of the convergence detection unit 43. When each unit has converged, the present apparatus S causes the supply device 16 to supply the growth gas. When each unit has not converged, the present apparatus S does not cause the supply device 16 to supply the growth gas.

[0097] FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the calculation process (S4) included in the operation of the device S.

[0098] First, the calculation unit 46 acquires the first concentration, the second concentration, the air supply flow rate, and the supply time from the storage unit 42 (S41, S42, S43A).

[0099] Next, the calculation unit 46 calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the plant based on the first concentration, the second concentration, the air supply flow rate, and the supply time acquired by the calculation unit 46 (S44).

[0100] Next, the display unit 47 displays the amount of carbon dioxide reduction calculated by the calculation unit 46 (S45).

[0101] In this manner, the present device S calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduction that has been reduced by the plants. The present device S displays the amount of carbon dioxide reduction calculated by the calculation unit 46.

[0102] FIG. 8 is a flowchart of another example of the calculation process (S4) included in the operation of the present device S.

[0103] Another example of the calculation process (S4) described below (hereinafter referred to as the "second calculation process") will be described focusing on the differences from the previously described calculation process (S4) (hereinafter referred to as the "first calculation process").

[0104] First, the calculation unit 46 acquires the convergence time from the storage unit 42 (S43B).

[0105] Next, the calculation unit 46 calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the plant based on the first concentration, the second concentration, the air flow rate, and the convergence time acquired by the calculation unit 46 (S44).

[0106] In this way, the present device S calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduction achieved by the plant based on the convergence time.

[0107] FIG. 9 is a schematic external view of the present device S showing a state in which each unit included in the present device S is not converged. This figure shows a state in which the first unit 1 is in contact with the second unit 2. This figure shows a state in which the second unit 2 is not in contact with the third unit 3. This figure shows a state in which the closed space CS is not partitioned. The figure shows a state in which a growing operation passage is formed between the second unit 2 and the third unit 3.

[0108] The "cultivation work passage" is a passage necessary for the breeder to carry out the cultivation work. The breeder carries out the cultivation work in the cultivation work passage.

[0109] "Cultivation work" is work necessary for cultivating plants. Examples of cultivation work include planting, harvesting, maintenance, planting seedlings, etc.

[0110] In this manner, when the second unit 2 is not in contact with the third unit 3 and the units are not converged, the present apparatus S forms a growth work passage between the second unit 2 and the third unit 3. That is, when the growth work passage is formed, the present apparatus S does not allow the supply device 16 to supply the growth gas.

[0111] Summary (1) According to the embodiment described above, the device S includes a first unit 1, a second unit 2, a third unit 3, and a supply device 16. The first unit 1 is disposed closest to the first direction among the units. The third unit 3 is disposed closest to the second direction among the units. The second unit 2 is disposed between the first unit 1 and the third unit 3 among the units. The first unit 1 includes a first wall portion 11 that opens in the second direction and a first internal space S1 that houses a plant. The third unit 3 includes a third wall portion 31 that opens in the first direction and a third internal space S3 that houses a plant. When the units converge, the units define a closed space CS. The closed space CS includes the first internal space S1 and the third internal space S3. The supply device 16 supplies a growth gas to the closed space CS. The plant absorbs the growth gas supplied to the closed space CS. As a result, the device S can efficiently grow plants housed in the closed space CS.

[0112] According to the embodiment described above, when the third unit 3 moves in the second direction from the state in which the units are converged, the present device S forms a growing work passage between the second unit 2 and the third unit 3. As a result, the present device S enables a grower to perform growing work.

[0113] In the conventional method of growing plants, carbon dioxide is supplied to the growing space and the working space. Therefore, the concentration of carbon dioxide in the working space is high. This method may have adverse effects on the grower who enters the working space and works there, such as causing poor physical condition and reducing the accuracy of the growing work. On the other hand, according to the embodiment described above, the present device S includes a control device 4. The control device 4 is connected to each unit via a network. The control device 4 includes a convergence detection unit 43, an alarm unit 44, and an operation control unit 45. The convergence detection unit 43 detects the convergence of each unit. When the convergence detection unit 43 does not detect the convergence of each unit, the operation control unit 45 stops the supply of growth gas by the supply device 16. When the closed space CS is not partitioned (when a growth work passage is formed), the present device S does not supply growth gas. As a result, the grower performs the growth work without the growth gas being supplied. The present device S can prevent adverse effects on the grower.

[0114] According to the embodiment described above, the control device 4 includes a calculation unit 46 and a display unit 47. The calculation unit 46 calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduction achieved by the plant. The display unit 47 displays the amount of carbon dioxide reduction calculated by the calculation unit 46. As a result, the breeder can visually recognize the amount of carbon dioxide reduction displayed on the display unit 47. The breeder can utilize the amount of carbon dioxide reduction achieved by the plant toward achieving carbon neutrality and carbon credits (a system in which greenhouse gas emission reductions are certified as credits and traded).

[0115] According to the embodiment described above, the convergence detection unit 43 calculates the convergence time based on the detection result. The calculation unit 46 acquires the convergence time calculated by the convergence detection unit 43 from the convergence detection unit 43. As a result, the present device S can calculate the amount of carbon dioxide reduction reduced by the plant based on the convergence time.

[0116] According to the embodiment described above, the supply device 16 condenses the carbon dioxide contained in the outside air to generate the growth gas. As a result, the present device S can efficiently grow the plants accommodated in the closed space CS while reducing the carbon dioxide gas in the atmosphere to achieve carbon neutrality.

[0117] According to the embodiment described above, the first wall portion 11 defines the device accommodating space DS. The device accommodating space DS accommodates the supply device 16. As a result, the device S can protect the supply device 16 from the environment outside the first wall portion 11.

[0118] According to the embodiment described above, the device housing space DS does not house a plant. The supply device 16 does not supply a growth gas to the device housing space DS. The supply device 16 supplies a growth gas only to the closed space CS. As a result, the device S can efficiently grow a plant housed in the closed space CS.

[0119] ●Embodiment of the present device (2)● Another embodiment of the present device (hereinafter referred to as the "second embodiment") described below will be described focusing on the differences from the previously described embodiment of the present device (hereinafter referred to as the "first embodiment").

[0120] The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the first end housing unit is fixed to the floor (immovable). The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the device includes a middle end housing unit instead of a middle housing unit. The second embodiment differs from the first embodiment in that the device partitions two closed spaces (a first closed space and a second closed space).

[0121] ●Configuration of this device (2) FIG. 10 is a schematic diagram of the device showing a second embodiment of the device. FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram of a first unit 1A, a second unit 2A, and a third unit 3A.

[0122] This device SA includes a first unit 1A, a second unit 2A, a third unit 3A, a control device 4A, and a rail R.

[0123] In the following description, the first unit 1A, the second unit 2A, and the third unit 3A will be referred to as "each unit" unless otherwise specified.

[0124] Each unit is connected to the control device 4A via a network using a wired communication method or a wireless communication method. The units converge to partition a first closed space CS1 and a second closed space CS2.

[0125] The first unit 1A is fixed to the floor and is immovable. The first unit 1A is a first end housing unit in the present invention.

[0126] The second unit 2A is disposed between the first unit 1A and the third unit 3A among the units. The second unit 2A includes a second wall portion 21A and a second internal space S2A. The second unit 2A is a middle end housing unit in the present invention.

[0127] The second wall portion 21A partitions the second internal space S2A. When the units converge, the second wall portion 21A partitions the first closed space CS1 and the second closed space CS2. The second wall portion 21A has an opening 211a. The second wall portion 21A is an intermediate end wall portion of the present invention and a partition wall portion of the present invention.

[0128] The second internal space S2A accommodates a plant.

[0129] The first closed space CS1 includes a first internal space S1 and a second internal space S2A.

[0130] The second contact portion 22a is disposed in the opening 211a. The second contact portion 22a is capable of contacting the first contact portion 12 included in the first unit 1A. That is, the second unit 2A is capable of contacting the first unit 1A.

[0131] The third unit 3A includes a third wall portion 31A, a third contact portion 32A, a third concentration meter 35, and a supply device .

[0132] The third wall portion 31A separates the third internal space S3A from the device accommodating space DS2.

[0133] The third internal space S3A accommodates plants.

[0134] The device accommodating space DS2 accommodates the supply device 36.

[0135] The second closed space CS2 includes a third internal space S3A.

[0136] The third contact portion 32A is connected to the opening 311. The third contact portion 32A abuts against the second wall portion 21A included in the second unit 2A. That is, the third unit 3A abuts against the second unit 2A.

[0137] The third concentration meter 35 measures a third concentration. The third concentration meter 35 is disposed inside the third wall portion 31A.

[0138] The "third concentration" is the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the gas in the second closed space CS2.

[0139] FIG. 12 is a schematic front view of the third unit 3A. This figure shows a state in which the third internal space S3A accommodates a plant. In the figure, the gas flow is indicated by thick arrows.

[0140] The supply device 36 generates a growth gas using outside air. The supply device 36 supplies the generated growth gas to the second closed space CS2. The supply device 36 is accommodated in the device accommodation space DS2. The operation of the supply device 36 is controlled by the control device 4A.

[0141] The functions of each component of the supply device 36 (blower 361, concentration membrane 362, pump 363, flow meter 364, and fourth concentration meter 365) are the same as the functions of each component of the supply device 16 (blower 161, concentration membrane 162, pump 163, flow meter 164, and second concentration meter 165).

[0142] The fourth concentration meter 365 measures the fourth concentration.

[0143] The "fourth concentration" is the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the growth gas sent from the pump 363 to the second closed space CS2.

[0144] ● Operation of this device (2) The operation of the device SA in the second embodiment will be described below.

[0145] The device SA operates in the same manner as the device S (the device in the first embodiment) in each of the first closed space CS1 and the second closed space CS2. That is, the device SA executes the process (S1) to process (S8) shown in FIG. 6 in each of the first closed space CS1 and the second closed space CS2.

[0146] FIG. 13 is a schematic external view of the device SA, showing a state in which only the first unit 1A and the third unit 3A among the units included in the device SA are converged. This figure shows a state in which the third unit 3A has not converged to the second unit 2A. This figure shows a state in which the first closed space CS1 is defined. This figure shows a state in which the second closed space CS2 is not partitioned. This figure shows a state in which a passage is formed between the second unit 2A and the third unit 3A.

[0147] In this manner, when the second unit 2A converges to the first unit 1A, the present device SA does not form a growing work passage (hereinafter referred to as the "first growing work passage") between the first unit 1A and the second unit 2A. When the third unit 3A does not converge to the second unit 2A, the present device SA forms a growing work passage (hereinafter referred to as the "second growing work passage") between the second unit 2A and the third unit 3A. In other words, when the second growing work passage is formed and the first growing work passage is not formed, the present device SA starts the supplying operation of the supplying device 16 and stops the supplying operation of the supplying device 36.

[0148] Summary (2) According to the embodiment described above, the device SA includes a first unit 1A, a second unit 2A, a third unit 3A, and supply devices 16 and 36. The first unit 1A is disposed closest to the first direction among the units. The second unit 2A is disposed between the first unit 1A and the third unit 3A among the units. The third unit 3A is disposed closest to the second direction among the units. The second unit 2A includes a second wall portion 21A that opens in the first direction and a second internal space S2A that houses a plant. The third unit 3A includes a third wall portion 31A that opens in the first direction and a third internal space S3A that houses a plant. When the units converge, each unit partitions a first closed space CS1 and a second closed space CS2. The first closed space CS1 includes a first internal space S1 and a second internal space S2. The second closed space CS2 includes a third internal space S3. The supply device 16 supplies the growth gas to the first closed space CS1. The supply device 36 supplies the growth gas to the second closed space CS2. The plants absorb the growth gas supplied to the first closed space CS1 and the second closed space CS2. As a result, the device SA can efficiently grow the plants accommodated in the first closed space CS1 and the second closed space CS2. The plants accommodated in the first closed space CS1 can absorb the growth gas supplied from the supply device 16. The plants accommodated in the second closed space CS2 can absorb the growth gas supplied from the supply device 36.

[0149] According to the embodiment described above, the device SA performs the same operation (such as a supply operation) as the device S in each of the first closed space CS1 and the second closed space CS2. When the first closed space CS1 is partitioned (the second unit 2A is converged to the first unit 1A) and the second closed space CS2 is not partitioned (the third unit 3A is not converged to the second unit 2A), the device SA supplies the growing gas generated by the supply device 16 only to the first closed space CS1. The device SA forms a second growing work passage between the second unit 2A and the third unit 3A. As a result, the device SA can supply the growing gas to the first closed space CS1 when the grower is performing the necessary growing work on the plant accommodated in the third internal space S3A. The device S can efficiently grow the plant accommodated in the first closed space CS1 while the grower is performing the growing work.

[0150] ●Other embodiments● Array In the embodiment described above, the second wall 21A of the second unit 2A is open only in the first direction. However, the intermediate end unit of the present invention only needs to have an intermediate end wall that is open in the first direction and / or the second direction, and a partition wall that can partition the first closed space and the second closed space when the multiple housing units converge, and the intermediate end wall of the present invention does not have to be open only in the first direction. That is, for example, the intermediate end wall of the present invention may be open in both the first direction and the second direction.

[0151] FIG. 14 is a schematic diagram showing yet another embodiment of the present device. The figure shows a number of the present devices as viewed in the direction of gravity. This figure shows a state in which a plurality of housing units constituting a plurality of the present apparatuses are converged.

[0152] Here, in the embodiment described above, the present device S includes a first unit 1, a second unit 2, and a third unit 3. The present device SA includes a first unit 1A, a second unit 2A, and a third unit 3A. However, the plurality of housing units in the present invention only need to be able to partition a closed space in which plants are grown, and the number of the plurality of housing units in the present invention is not limited to "3". That is, for example, the number of the plurality of housing units in the present invention may be "2", or may be "4" or more.

[0153] This device SB includes a first end housing unit of the present invention and a second end housing unit of the present invention, that is, this device SB includes two housing units.

[0154] This device SC includes a first end housing unit of the present invention, a middle end housing unit of the present invention, and a second end housing unit of the present invention, that is, this device SC includes three housing units.

[0155] This device SD includes a first end housing unit of the present invention, two intermediate housing units of the present invention, and a second end housing unit of the present invention, that is, this device SD includes four housing units.

[0156] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the arrangement direction in which each unit is arranged is the first direction and the second direction. However, the multiple housing units in the present invention only need to be able to partition a closed space in which a plant is grown when converged, and the arrangement direction in which the multiple housing units in the present invention are arranged is not limited to the first direction and the second direction. That is, for example, the multiple housing units in the present invention may be arranged in another arrangement direction (hereinafter referred to as the "second arrangement direction") different from a predetermined arrangement direction (hereinafter referred to as the "first arrangement direction"). The second arrangement direction is not parallel to the first arrangement direction.

[0157] In this case, the direction on one side of the second arrangement direction is the third direction, and the direction on the other side is the fourth direction. The first end housing unit is disposed closest to the first direction side and closest to the third direction side among the multiple housing units. The second end housing unit is disposed closest to the second direction side and closest to the third direction side among the other housing units. The other housing units include a third end housing unit and a fourth end housing unit. The third end housing unit is disposed closest to the first direction side and closest to the fourth direction side among the other housing units. The third end housing unit includes a third wall portion and a third internal space. The third wall portion opens in the second direction and / or the third direction. The third internal space is partitioned by the third wall portion and is capable of accommodating a plant. The fourth end housing unit is disposed closest to the second direction side and closest to the fourth direction side among the other housing units. The fourth end housing unit includes a fourth wall portion and a fourth internal space. The fourth wall portion is open in the first direction and / or the third direction. The fourth internal space is partitioned by the fourth wall portion and is capable of housing a plant. The closed space includes the first internal space, the third internal space, and the fourth internal space.

[0158] This device SE includes a first end housing unit of the present invention, a second end housing unit of the present invention, a third end housing unit of the present invention, and a fourth end housing unit of the present invention. That is, this device SE includes four housing units.

[0159] This device SF includes five housing units: a first end housing unit of the present invention, a second end housing unit of the present invention, a third end housing unit of the present invention, and a fourth end housing unit of the present invention. That is, this device SF includes nine housing units.

[0160] Furthermore, the multiple housing units in the present invention may be moved while still dividing all or part of the closed space, or may be moved so as to form a passage from a convergent state (non-convergent state). The multiple housing units may be moved so as to change the combination of the multiple housing units dividing one closed space. In this case, the present device can change the arrangement of the multiple housing units to change the number and size of the closed spaces, the number of supply devices that supply growth gas to the closed spaces, the locations where the housing units are arranged, etc. Therefore, the present device can grow plants by changing the arrangement of the multiple housing units.

[0161] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the plants are plants that can be grown hydroponically. However, the plants grown by the present device are not limited to the embodiment described above. That is, for example, the plants may be plants that can be grown in soil.

[0162] ●This device In the embodiment described above, the device S, SA is equipped with rails R. However, as long as the second end housing unit in the present invention is movable, the number of rails in the present invention is not limited to "1". That is, for example, the number of rails in the present invention may be "2" or more, or may be "0". The device may be a railless growing device that does not have rails.

[0163] In the above-described embodiment, the present device S, SA is used in a plant cultivation factory. However, the place where the present device is used is not limited to a plant cultivation factory. That is, for example, the place where the present device is used may be a warehouse or outdoors.

[0164] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the present device S, SA includes the control device 4, 4A that connects to each unit via a network. However, the control device included in the present device is not limited to this. That is, for example, each configuration included in the control device may be included in any one of the multiple housing units in the present invention (for example, the first end housing unit), or may be included in each of the multiple housing units.

[0165] ● Housing unit The shape of the multiple housing units in the present invention is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the shape of the housing unit in the present invention may be a rectangular box shape or a hemispherical shape. The housing unit may be a mobile shelf unit having multiple mobile shelves. In this case, the first end housing unit is a mobile shelf or a fixed shelf. The other housing units are mobile shelves. The mobile shelf is, for example, a manual, hand-pulled mobile shelf or an electric mobile shelf.

[0166] In the embodiment described above, all of the units included in the device S are movable. Among the units included in the device SA, the first unit 1A is fixed so as to be immovable. However, whether each of the multiple housing units in the present invention is movable or not is not limited to the embodiment described above. That is, for example, the intermediate housing unit in the present invention may be fixed so as to be immovable.

[0167] Furthermore, the materials of the first wall, the second wall, the intermediate wall, and the intermediate end wall in the present invention are not particularly limited. That is, for example, the first wall, the second wall, the intermediate wall, and the intermediate end wall in the present invention may be made of vinyl, resin, or a reflective material capable of reflecting light.

[0168] ●Feeding device In the embodiment described above, the present apparatus S for growing a plant in a single closed space includes the supply device 16. However, the supply device in the present invention only needs to be able to supply a growth gas to the closed space, and the number of supply devices in the present invention is not limited to "1". In other words, for example, the number of supply devices included in the present apparatus for growing a plant in a single closed space may be "2" or more.

[0169] In the above-described embodiment, the present device SA for growing plants in two closed spaces includes the supply device 16 and the supply device 36. The growth gas generated by the supply device 16 (hereinafter referred to as the "first growth gas") is supplied to the first closed space CS1. The growth gas generated by the supply device 36 (hereinafter referred to as the "second growth gas") is supplied to the second closed space CS2. However, the supply device in the present invention is not limited to the number of destinations of the growth gas supplied from one supply device as long as it can supply the growth gas to the closed space. That is, for example, one supply device in the present invention may supply the growth gas to multiple closed spaces. In this case, one supply device may include a branch pipe arranged between the supply device and each of the multiple closed spaces. One supply device may include a valve capable of adjusting the flow rate of the growth gas supplied to each of the multiple closed spaces. In this way, the present apparatus which divides a plurality of closed spaces only needs to be equipped with one supply device, and costs can be reduced compared to the case where a plurality of supply devices are required.

[0170] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the supply device 16, 36 is equipped with the concentration membrane 162, 362. However, the supply device in the present invention may not be equipped with the concentration membrane as long as it supplies the growth gas to the closed space. That is, for example, the supply device in the present invention may be a DAC (Direct Air Capture) device that captures carbon dioxide by physical adsorption, a DAC device that captures carbon dioxide by cryogenic separation, a pipeline, a dry ice supply device, a carbon dioxide gas cylinder, or a combustion-type carbon dioxide applicator. Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the flow meter 164 is disposed between the pump 163 and the second concentration meter 165 in the supply device 16. The second concentration meter 165 is disposed downstream of the flow meter 164 in the supply device 16. However, the flow meter in the present invention may be disposed downstream of the concentration membrane and measure the air flow rate and the air supply time, and the location of the flow meter in the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. The second concentration meter in the present invention may be disposed downstream of the concentration membrane and measure the second concentration, and the location of the second concentration meter in the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. That is, for example, the second concentration meter in the present invention may be disposed between the pump and the flow meter in the supply device. The flow meter in the present invention may be disposed downstream of the second concentration meter. The second concentration meter in the present invention and the flow meter in the present invention may each be disposed in a supply flow path connected between the supply device and the closed space.

[0171] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the supply device 16 was provided in the first unit 1, 1A. The supply device 36 was provided in the third unit 3A. However, the supply device in the present invention only needs to concentrate carbon dioxide contained in the outside air to generate a growth gas, and the location where the supply device in the present invention is arranged is not limited to the above-described embodiment. That is, for example, the housing unit to which the supply device in the present invention is attached may be the intermediate housing unit in the present invention. The housing unit to which the supply device is attached may or may not house the supply device. The housing unit housing the supply device may house the supply device in a device housing space different from the closed space, or may house the supply device in the closed space.

[0172] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the operation control unit 45 starts or stops the supply of the growth gas by the supply device based on the convergence detection detected by the convergence detection unit 43. However, the control of starting and stopping the supply of the growth gas by the control device in the present invention is not limited to this. That is, for example, the control device in the present invention may control the ON / OFF of the power supply of the supply device, or may control a valve provided in the supply device.

[0173] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the control of the supply operation of the supply device 16 by the operation control unit 45 was "start of supply" and "stop of supply". However, the control of the supply device by the control device in the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. That is, for example, the control device in the present invention may control to increase or decrease the flow rate of the growth gas supplied by the supply device, or may control to increase or decrease the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the growth gas.

[0174] ●Growth gas In the above-described embodiment, the growth gas is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the growth gas in the present invention may be a gas containing a volatile component such as acetoin or butanediol.

[0175] In a conventional method for growing multiple plants (e.g., a first plant and a second plant) housed in a closed space, it was difficult to partition the closed space into separate spaces for each of the multiple plants. Therefore, in this method, carbon dioxide is supplied to one closed space housing each of the first plant and the second plant. As a result, when the carbon dioxide concentration optimal for growing the first plant is different from the carbon dioxide concentration optimal for growing the second plant, the concentration of carbon dioxide absorbed by at least one of the first plant and the second plant is not optimal for growing that plant. In other words, the growth efficiency of this method is poor. Meanwhile, in the above-described embodiment, the difference between the first growth gas and the second growth gas is not particularly limited. That is, the first growth gas may be different from or the same as the second growth gas. The concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the first growth gas may be different from or the same as the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the second growth gas. That is, when the first closed space accommodating the first plant and the second closed space accommodating the second plant are partitioned, the operation control unit in the present invention may control the operation of the supply device so that the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the first growth gas is different from the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the second growth gas. In this case, the device supplies the first growth gas suitable for growing the first plant to the first closed space. The device supplies the second growth gas suitable for growing the second plant to the second closed space. As a result, the device can supply the growth gas suitable for growing each of the multiple plants to each of the multiple closed spaces, thereby efficiently growing the multiple plants.

[0176] Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the difference between the air flow rate measured by the flowmeter 164 and the air flow rate measured by the flowmeter 364 is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the flow rate of the growth gas supplied by the first supply device in the present invention may be different from or the same as the flow rate of the growth gas supplied by the first supply device in the present invention. That is, when the first closed space accommodating the first plant and the second closed space accommodating the second plant are partitioned, the operation control unit in the present invention may control the operation of the supply device so that the flow rate of the first growth gas is different from the flow rate of the second growth gas. In this case, the device supplies an optimal amount of growth gas for growing the first plant to the first closed space. The device supplies an optimal amount of growth gas for growing the second plant to the second closed space. As a result, the device supplies an optimal amount of growth gas for growing each of the multiple plants to each of the multiple closed spaces, thereby efficiently growing the multiple plants.

[0177] Convergence and sealing In the embodiment described above, the first unit 1 has the first abutment portion 12 that abuts against the second abutment portion 22a. However, each of the multiple housing units in the present device invention may have a sealing member that abuts against the adjacent housing unit. The sealing member seals the closed space. The material of the sealing member is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the sealing member in the present invention may be a gas seal material made of foam sponge, made of rubber, or made of a plate-shaped resin.

[0178] In the embodiment described above, the convergence detection unit 43 detects the convergence of the multiple housing units. However, instead of this, the present device may be provided with a sealed detection device that detects whether the closed space is sealed or not. In this case, the control device in the present invention starts the supply of growth gas when the sealed detection device detects that the closed space is sealed. When the sealed detection device does not detect that the closed space is sealed, the control device controls the operation of the supply device to stop the supply of growth gas to the closed space. The notification device in the present invention notifies the detection state of the sealed detection device.

[0179] Furthermore, the notification device in the present invention may notify the detection state of the sealed detection device, and the notification mode by the notification device is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the notification device may be an LED. In this case, the notification device emits light to notify whether each unit has converged. The notification device may be a speaker. In this case, the notification device emits an alarm sound to notify whether each unit has converged. The notification device may stop the emission of the LED or the alarm sound when a predetermined time has elapsed from the start of the alarm. The notification device may notify the outside of the multiple housing units, or may notify the inside of the multiple housing units.

[0180] ●Calculation and display of reduction amount In the embodiment described above, the present device S includes the first concentration meter 15 and the second concentration meter 165. However, the present device does not need to include the second concentration meter as long as the calculation unit can calculate the amount of carbon dioxide reduction. That is, for example, when the supply device in the present invention is a gas cylinder that supplies carbon dioxide at a predetermined concentration, the memory unit may store a value input in advance by the breeder (the value of the concentration of carbon dioxide supplied from the gas cylinder). The calculation unit calculates the amount of reduction based on the value stored in the memory unit. Also, in the embodiments described above, the supply device 16, 36 was equipped with a flow meter 164, 364. However, as long as the device can calculate the amount of carbon dioxide reduction by the calculation unit, the supply device in the present invention does not need to be equipped with a flow meter. That is, for example, the memory unit in the present invention may store a normal air supply flow rate that is measured in advance. The calculation unit in the present invention acquires the air supply flow rate stored by the memory unit. The calculation unit calculates the reduction amount based on the air supply flow rate acquired by the calculation unit.

[0181] Furthermore, in the embodiment described above, the display unit 47 that displays the reduction amount is provided in the control device 4, 4A. However, the reduction amount display unit in the present invention only needs to be arranged so as to be visible from outside the multiple housing units, and does not have to be provided in the control device 4, 4A. That is, for example, the first end housing unit in the present invention may be provided with a reduction amount display unit. The reduction amount display unit is arranged on the outside of the first wall portion.

[0182] Furthermore, the reduction amount display unit in the present invention is only required to be able to display the reduction amount, and the display mode of the reduction amount displayed on the reduction amount display unit is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the display mode of the reduction amount displayed on the reduction amount display unit in the present invention may be a direct display mode, an indirect display mode, or both. The direct display mode is a mode in which the reduction amount is directly displayed. The direct display mode is, for example, a unit display such as "ppm", a conversion display such as "g", or a conversion display such as "L" or "m 3" and flow rate display such as "L / min." The indirect display mode is a mode in which the reduction amount is indirectly displayed. Examples of the indirect display mode include display using icons that change according to the reduction amount (e.g., plant leaves, number of flowers, number of trees, etc.), and display using colors that change according to the reduction amount.

[0183] ●Other information The configuration of the present device in the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. That is, for example, the present device may include a storage unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of a plant, and a cultivation information display unit that displays the cultivation information. The cultivation information includes cultivated plant information and cultivation work information. The cultivated plant information is information on the characteristics and state of a plant cultivated in a closed space. The cultivated plant information is, for example, the type of plant, the accumulated amount of carbon dioxide supplied into the closed space, the accumulated amount of nutrients given, the cultivation period, etc. The cultivation work information is information on the cultivation work. The cultivation work information is, for example, the work content, the worker, the work time, the shipping destination, etc. In this case, the control device controls the operation of the supply device based on the cultivation information stored in the storage unit. Therefore, the present device can efficiently cultivate a plant accommodated in a closed space according to the plant and the cultivation work.

[0184] Further, the configuration of the present device in the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described above. That is, for example, the present device may include an internal environment control unit. In this case, the internal environment control unit controls the internal environment of the closed space based on information stored in the memory unit (for example, each measurement information, growth information, environmental information, etc.). Specifically, the internal environment control unit may control the amount of LED irradiation in the closed space to artificially switch between day and night. The internal environment control unit may control the temperature in the closed space to give the plant stress due to the temperature difference. The internal environment control unit may control the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the gas in the closed space, the humidity in the closed space, etc. When the present device includes multiple closed spaces, the internal environment control unit may control the internal environment of each of the multiple closed spaces for each of the multiple closed spaces.

[0185] Movement control In the above-described embodiment, the first unit 1, the second units 2, 2A, and the third units 3, 3A are movable. However, the method of moving the housing units in the present invention is not particularly limited. That is, for example, the movable housing unit in the present invention may be an electric housing unit equipped with a motor, or a housing unit movable by a shelf transport robot. The present device may include a movement control unit that controls the movement of the housing units.

[0186] Furthermore, the present device, which includes a movable housing unit and a movement control unit, may include an environmental information acquisition unit that acquires environmental information indicating the internal environment in the closed space and / or the external environment outside the closed space. The internal environment is, for example, the amount of LED irradiation in the closed space, the temperature in the closed space, and the concentration of carbon dioxide in the closed space. The external environment is, for example, the amount of solar radiation, temperature, and weather. In this case, the movement control unit controls the movement of the housing unit based on the environmental information. The movement control unit may control the intervals between the multiple housing units to be constant based on the concentration of carbon dioxide in the closed space. The movement control unit may move the multiple housing units that divide the closed space to an environment suitable for growing plants (such as a place irradiated by LEDs in a plant growing factory, a terrace irradiated by sunlight, or a bright place in an outdoor vinyl greenhouse) based on the environmental information indicating the external environment stored in the storage unit.

[0187] The movement control unit may also control the movement of the movable casing unit based on the cultivation information. Specifically, the movement control unit may control the movement of the casing unit so as to form a passage based on the work time stored in the storage unit. The movement control unit may move the casing unit to a location where a worker performing cultivation work is located based on the work content, work time, and work location stored in the storage unit.

[0188] ●Features of this device● The features of the device described so far are summarized below.

[0189] This device is A cultivation device (e.g., this device S, SA) that cultivates a plant in a closed space (e.g., a closed space CS, a first closed space CS1, a second closed space CS2), A plurality of housing units (e.g., first units 1, 1A, second units 2, 2A, and third units 3, 3A) arranged along a predetermined arrangement direction; A supply device (e.g., supply device 16, 36) that supplies a growth gas used for growing the plant to the closed space; and The direction on one side of the arrangement direction is a first direction, and the direction on the other side is a second direction, The plurality of housing units include Among the plurality of housing units, a first end housing unit (for example, a first unit 1, 1A) that is disposed closest to the first direction side; other housing units (e.g., second units 2, 2A, third units 3, 3A) disposed in the second direction relative to the first end housing unit; Including, The other housing unit is Among the other housing units, a second end housing unit (e.g., third unit 3, 3A) that is disposed furthest in the second direction, Including, The first end housing unit includes: A first wall portion (e.g., first wall portion 11) that opens in the second direction; A first internal space (for example, a first internal space S1) that is partitioned by the first wall portion and is capable of accommodating the plant; Including, The second end housing unit includes: A second wall portion (e.g., third wall portion 31, 31A) that opens in the first direction; A second internal space (e.g., a third internal space S3, S3A) partitioned by the second wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The second end housing unit is configured such that the plurality of housing units are movable so as to converge, When the plurality of housing units are converged, the plurality of housing units partition the closed space in which the plants are grown, The closed space is The first internal space; The second internal space; Including, It is characterized by:

[0190] In this device, The other housing unit is an intermediate housing unit (e.g., second unit 2) disposed between the first end housing unit and the second end housing unit; Including, The intermediate housing unit includes: an intermediate wall portion (e.g., a second wall portion 21) that opens in the first direction and the second direction; An intermediate internal space (e.g., a second internal space S2) partitioned by the intermediate wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The closed space is The intermediate internal space, Including, It can also be something like that.

[0191] In this device, The closed space is A first closed space (for example, a first closed space CS1), A second closed space (for example, a second closed space CS2) disposed on the second direction side of the first closed space; Including, The other housing unit is an intermediate end housing unit (e.g., second unit 2A) disposed between the first end housing unit and the second end housing unit; With The intermediate end housing unit includes: an intermediate end wall portion (e.g., second wall portion 21A) that opens in the first direction and / or the second direction; a partition wall portion (e.g., a second wall portion 21A) capable of partitioning the first closed space and the second closed space when the plurality of housing units are converged; With The first closed space is The first internal space, Including, The second closed space is The second internal space, Including, It can also be something like that.

[0192] In this device, The growth gas is A first growth gas supplied to the first closed space; A second growth gas supplied to the second closed space; Including, The concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the first growth gas is different from the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the second growth gas. It can also be something like that.

[0193] This device is A control device (e.g., an operation control unit 45) for controlling the operation of the supply device; and The plant is A first plant grown in the first closed space; A second plant grown in the second closed space; and Including, The growth gas is A first growth gas supplied to the first closed space; A second growth gas supplied to the second closed space; Including, The control device controls the operation of the supply device so that a flow rate of the first growth gas and a concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the first growth gas are different from a flow rate of the second growth gas and a concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the second growth gas, respectively. It can also be something like that.

[0194] In this device, The supply device comprises: a first supply device (e.g., a supply device 16) that supplies the first growth gas to the first closed space; a second supply device (e.g., a supply device 36) that supplies the second growth gas to the second closed space; Equipped with It can also be something like that.

[0195] This device is A control device (e.g., an operation control unit 45) for controlling the operation of the supply device; a convergence detection device (for example, a convergence detection unit 43) that detects whether the plurality of housing units are converged; and the control device starts supplying the growth gas when the convergence detection device detects the convergence of the plurality of case units. It can also be something like that.

[0196] In this device, the control device controls an operation of the supply device to stop the supply of the growth gas to the closed space when the convergence detection device does not detect the convergence of the plurality of case units. It can also be something like that.

[0197] This device is A control device (e.g., an operation control unit 45) for controlling the operation of the supply device; a first convergence detection device (e.g., a convergence detection unit 43) that detects whether the housing unit that defines the first closed space among the plurality of housing units is converged; a second convergence detection device (e.g., a convergence detection unit 43) that detects whether the housing unit that defines the second closed space among the plurality of housing units is converged; and The control device includes: When the first convergence detection device detects the convergence of the housing unit that defines the first closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the first closed space is started, When the second convergence detection device detects the convergence of the housing unit that defines the second closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the second closed space is started, When the first convergence detection device does not detect the convergence of the casing unit that defines the first closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the first closed space is stopped, when the second convergence detection device does not detect convergence of the casing unit defining the second closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the second closed space is stopped. It can also be something like that.

[0198] In this device, Each of the plurality of housing units includes a sealing member that comes into contact with the adjacent housing units when the plurality of housing units are converged to seal the closed space; Equipped with It can also be something like that.

[0199] This device is A control device for controlling an operation of the supply device; A closed space detection device that detects whether the closed space is sealed; and The control device starts supplying the growth gas when the sealing detection device detects that the closed space is sealed. It can also be something like that.

[0200] In this device, the control device controls an operation of the supply device to stop the supply of the growth gas to the closed space when the sealing detection device does not detect the sealing of the closed space. It can also be something like that.

[0201] This device is an alarm device that notifies the detection state of the closed detection device; It is made of It can also be something like that.

[0202] In this device, When the second end housing unit moves in the second direction from a state in which the plurality of housing units are converged, Among the plurality of housing units, a passage through which the plant grower can enter is formed between at least a pair of adjacent housing units. It can also be something like that.

[0203] In this device, The first end housing unit is fixed so as not to be movable in the arrangement direction. It can also be something like that.

[0204] In this device, The first end housing unit is movable in the arrangement direction. It can also be something like that.

[0205] This device is A calculation unit (e.g., a calculation unit 46) that calculates the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the plant; A reduction amount display unit (e.g., display unit 47) that displays the reduction amount; and the reduction amount display unit is arranged so as to be visible from outside the plurality of housing units; It can also be something like that.

[0206] This device is a storage unit that stores a display mode of the reduction amount to be displayed on the reduction amount display unit; A display control unit that controls the display mode; It is made of It can also be something like that.

[0207] In this device, the calculation unit calculates the reduction amount based on a convergence time for the plurality of housing units to converge. It can also be something like that.

[0208] In this device, The concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the growth gas is higher than the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the outside air outside the closed space. It can also be something like that.

[0209] In this device, The supply device condenses carbon dioxide contained in the outside air to generate the growth gas. It can also be something like that.

[0210] In this device, The supply device is attached to at least one of the housing units. It can also be something like that.

[0211] In this device, The housing unit to which the supply device is attached houses the supply device. It can also be something like that.

[0212] In this device, The housing unit to which the supply device is attached is An apparatus accommodating space (e.g., apparatus accommodating space DS, DS2) for accommodating the supply apparatus; With The device accommodation space is a space different from the closed space. It can also be something like that.

[0213] This device is A storage unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of the plant; a development information display unit that displays the development information; It is made of It can also be something like that.

[0214] This device is A control device for controlling an operation of the supply device; A storage unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of the plant; and The control device controls the operation of the supply device based on the cultivation information. It can also be something like that.

[0215] This device is a movement control unit for controlling the movement of the housing unit; an environmental information acquisition unit that acquires environmental information indicating an internal environment in the closed space and / or an external environment outside the closed space; and The movement control unit is and controlling the movement of the other housing units based on the environmental information. It can also be something like that.

[0216] This device is a movement control unit for controlling the movement of the housing unit; A storage unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of the plant; and The movement control unit is Controlling the movement of the other housing units based on the development information. It can also be something like that.

[0217] In this device, The arrangement direction is A first arrangement direction; A second arrangement direction; Including, The first direction is a direction on one side of the first arrangement direction, The second direction is a direction on the other side of the first arrangement direction, One side of the second arrangement direction is a third direction, and the other side of the second arrangement direction is a fourth direction, The first end housing unit is disposed closest to the third direction side among the plurality of housing units, The second end housing unit is disposed closest to the third direction side among the other housing units, The other housing unit is a third end housing unit that is disposed furthest in the first direction and furthest in the fourth direction among the other housing units; a fourth end housing unit that is disposed furthest in the second direction and furthest in the fourth direction among the other housing units; Including, The third end housing unit is a third wall portion opening in the second direction and / or the third direction; A third internal space partitioned by the third wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The fourth end housing unit is a fourth wall portion opening in the first direction and / or the third direction; A fourth internal space partitioned by the fourth wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The closed space is The third internal space; The fourth internal space; Including, It can also be something like that.

[0218] In this device, the plurality of housing units are movable shelf units each having a plurality of movable shelves, the other housing unit is the movable shelf, The first end housing unit is the movable shelf or a fixed shelf that does not move. It can also be something like that. [Explanation of symbols]

[0219] S: This device 1: First unit 11: 1st wall part 111: Opening 12: 1st contact part 13: Communications Department 14: Contact detection unit 15: 1st concentration meter 16: Feeding device 161: Blower 162: Concentration membrane 163: Pump 164:Flowmeter 165:Second concentration meter 2: Second unit 21:Second wall part 211a: opening 211b: Opening 22a: Second contact part 22b: Second contact part 23: Communications Department 24: Contact detection unit 3: Third Unit 31:Third wall part 311: Opening 32:Third contact part 33: Communications Department 34: Contact detection unit 35:Third concentration meter 36: Feeding device 4: Control device 41: Communications Department 42: Storage section 43: Convergence detection unit 44: Information Department 45: Motion control section 46: Calculation section 47: Display section S1: 1st internal space S2:Second internal space S3: Third internal space CS: Closed space DS: Equipment storage space

Claims

1. A cultivation device for cultivating plants in a closed space, a plurality of housing units arranged along a predetermined arrangement direction; a supply device that supplies a growth gas used to grow the plant to the closed space; a control device for controlling the operation of the supply device; a convergence detection device that detects whether the plurality of housing units are converged; and One of the arrangement directions is a first direction, and the other direction is a second direction, The plurality of housing units include: a first end housing unit arranged closest to the first direction among the plurality of housing units; another housing unit disposed in the second direction relative to the first end housing unit; Including, The other housing unit is a second end housing unit that is disposed furthest in the second direction among the other housing units; Including, The first end housing unit includes: a first wall portion that opens in the second direction; a first internal space partitioned by the first wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The second end housing unit includes: a second wall portion that opens in the first direction; a second internal space partitioned by the second wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The second end housing unit is movable so that the plurality of housing units can converge, When the plurality of housing units converge, the plurality of housing units define the closed space in which the plants are grown, The closed space is the first internal space; the second internal space; Including, the control device starts supplying the growth gas when the convergence detection device detects convergence of the plurality of housing units; A cultivation device characterized by:

2. the control device stops the supply of the growth gas when the convergence detection device does not detect convergence of the plurality of housing units. The growing device according to claim 1.

3. The other housing unit is an intermediate housing unit disposed between the first end housing unit and the second end housing unit; Including, The intermediate housing unit is an intermediate wall portion that opens in the first direction and the second direction; an intermediate internal space partitioned by the intermediate wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The closed space is the intermediate interior space; Including, The growing device according to claim 1.

4. The closed space is a first closed space; a second closed space disposed on the second direction side of the first closed space; Including, The other housing unit is an intermediate end housing unit disposed between the first end housing unit and the second end housing unit; Including, The intermediate end housing unit includes: an intermediate end wall portion that opens in the first direction and / or the second direction; a partition wall portion that can partition the first closed space and the second closed space when the plurality of housing units are converged; With The first closed space is the first internal space; Including, The second closed space is the second internal space; Including, The growing device according to claim 1.

5. The growth gas is a first growth gas supplied to the first closed space; a second growth gas supplied to the second closed space; Including, The concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the first growth gas is different from the concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the second growth gas. The growing device according to claim 4.

6. The plant, a first plant grown in the first closed space; a second plant grown in the second closed space; Including, The growth gas is a first growth gas supplied to the first closed space; a second growth gas supplied to the second closed space; Including, the control device controls the operation of the supply device so that a flow rate of the first growth gas and a concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the first growth gas are different from a flow rate of the second growth gas and a concentration of carbon dioxide contained in the second growth gas, respectively. The growing device according to claim 4.

7. The supply device comprises: a first supply device that supplies the first growth gas to the first closed space; a second supply device that supplies the second growth gas to the second closed space; Equipped with The growing device according to claim 5.

8. A first convergence detection device that detects whether or not the housing unit that defines the first closed space among the plurality of housing units is converged; a second convergence detection device that detects whether the housing unit that defines the second closed space among the plurality of housing units is converged; and The control device When the first convergence detection device detects convergence of the housing unit defining the first closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the first closed space is started, When the second convergence detection device detects convergence of the housing unit defining the second closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the second closed space is started, When the first convergence detection device does not detect convergence of the housing unit that defines the first closed space, the supply of the growth gas to the first closed space is stopped, when the second convergence detection device does not detect convergence of the housing unit defining the second closed space, stopping the supply of the growth gas to the second closed space; The growing device according to claim 4.

9. Each of the plurality of housing units comprises: a sealing member that comes into contact with the adjacent housing units when the plurality of housing units are converged to seal the closed space; Equipped with The growing device according to claim 1.

10. A sealed space detection device that detects whether the closed space is sealed; and the control device starts supplying the growth gas when the sealing detection device detects that the closed space is sealed. The growing device according to claim 9.

11. the control device controls the operation of the supply device to stop the supply of the growth gas to the closed space when the sealing detection device does not detect that the closed space is sealed. The growing device according to claim 10.

12. an alarm device that notifies the detection state of the closed-circuit detection device; consisting of The growing device according to claim 11.

13. A calculation unit for calculating the amount of carbon dioxide reduced by the plant. and The convergence detection device calculates a convergence time during which the plurality of housing units converge, the calculation unit calculates the reduction amount based on the convergence time during which the plurality of housing units converge. The growing device according to claim 1.

14. A reduction amount display unit that displays the reduction amount; a storage unit that stores a display format of the reduction amount to be displayed on the reduction amount display unit; a display control unit that controls the display mode; and the reduction amount display unit is arranged so as to be visible from outside the plurality of housing units; The growing device according to claim 13.

15. The supply device condenses carbon dioxide contained in the outside air outside the closed space to generate the growth gas. The growing device according to claim 1 or 13.

16. The housing unit to which the supply device is attached is an apparatus accommodating space for accommodating the supply apparatus; With The device accommodation space is a space different from the closed space. The growing device according to claim 1.

17. a storage unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of the plant; a development information display unit that displays the development information; consisting of The growing device according to claim 1.

18. A memory unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of the plant; and The control device controls the operation of the supply device based on the cultivation information. The growing device according to claim 1.

19. a movement control unit that controls the movement of the housing unit; an environmental information acquisition unit that acquires environmental information indicating an internal environment within the closed space and / or an external environment outside the closed space; and The movement control unit Controlling the movement of the other housing units based on the environmental information. The growing device according to claim 1.

20. a movement control unit that controls the movement of the housing unit; a storage unit that stores cultivation information related to the cultivation of the plant; and The movement control unit Controlling the movement of the other housing units based on the development information. The growing device according to claim 1.

21. The arrangement direction is a first arrangement direction; a second arrangement direction; Including, the first direction is a direction on one side of the first arrangement direction, the second direction is a direction on the other side of the first arrangement direction, one side of the second arrangement direction is a third direction and the other side of the second arrangement direction is a fourth direction, The first end housing unit is disposed closest to the third direction side among the plurality of housing units, The second end housing unit is disposed closest to the third direction side among the other housing units, The other housing unit is a third end housing unit disposed furthest in the first direction and furthest in the fourth direction among the other housing units; a fourth end housing unit that is disposed furthest in the second direction and furthest in the fourth direction among the other housing units; Including, The third end housing unit is a third wall portion that opens in the second direction and / or the third direction; a third internal space partitioned by the third wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The fourth end housing unit is a fourth wall portion that opens in the first direction and / or the third direction; a fourth internal space partitioned by the fourth wall portion and capable of accommodating the plant; With The closed space is the third internal space; the fourth internal space; Including, The growing device according to claim 1.

22. the first end housing unit is movable in the arrangement direction; The growing device according to claim 21.

Images