Apparatus for cultivating edible mushrooms

Abstract

The invention relates to an apparatus (10) for cultivating edible mushrooms, comprising: at least one housing having a housing interior (18); at least one compartment bottom (43) for receiving mushroom substrate, which compartment bottom (43) is fastened in the housing interior (18); at least one electrically operable air-conditioning device (39) for air-conditioning the housing interior (18); and at least one electrical terminal for establishing an electrical connection to a socket or a plug of a photovoltaic module (16).

Description

Device for growing edible mushrooms

[0001] The present invention relates to a device for the cultivation of edible mushrooms and a system comprising a ground-mounted photovoltaic system and a device according to the invention. State of the art

[0002] Due to the energy crisis, the demand for photovoltaic systems (PV systems), especially ground-mounted PV systems, is constantly increasing; however, this also increases the proportion of land area that is not (agriculturally) usable and is covered by the PV modules.

[0003] Ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems compete with agricultural land because they require large areas that could otherwise be used for growing food crops. This leads to a significant loss of arable land, accelerates soil sealing, and also impairs soil quality. Furthermore, such PV systems can negatively impact biodiversity and, in the long term, jeopardize the economic sustainability of farms. Competition with other renewable energy sources for available land is another disadvantage.

[0004] The present invention therefore aims to avoid the aforementioned disadvantages and, in particular, to enable the agricultural use of such areas. Further objectives of the invention will become apparent from the following description. Disclosure of the invention

[0005] One object of the present invention is solved by a device for cultivating edible mushrooms, comprising: a. at least one housing with an interior, the interior of which is enclosed by a housing lid, a housing base and a housing wall arranged between the housing lid and the housing base; b. at least one shelf for receiving mushroom substrate, the shelf being attached to the housing wall in the interior of the housing between the housing lid and the housing base. c. at least one electrically operated air conditioning device for air conditioning the interior of the housing, and d. at least one electrical connection for making an electrical connection, in particular a detachable one, with a junction box or connector of a photovoltaic module, in particular of a ground-mounted PV system.

[0006] The electrically operated air conditioning unit can thus be supplied with power by the PV module (photovoltaic module), in particular the PV module of the ground-mounted PV system, under which the device according to the invention can be positioned. This enables the device to utilize a growing volume, which is formed between the photovoltaic module and the ground area covered by the photovoltaic module, for the cultivation of food, in particular edible mushrooms.The device can be positioned under the PV module, in particular by sliding it in, requires no additional power supply since the air conditioning unit is supplied by the open-field system, and thus enables the (energy-)efficient cultivation of food in an area that cannot be used for agriculture according to the state of the art, especially since this area available under the open-field system has neither the necessary supply of sunlight nor a supply of (rain)water for agricultural use.

[0007] The housing of the device is particularly preferably designed such that the device occupies or fills at least 60%, preferably at least 70% or more than 80%, particularly preferably at least 90% or substantially 100%, of the volume formed between the photovoltaic module and the ground area covered by the photovoltaic module. This allows the areas located under ground-mounted PV systems to be used even more efficiently (for agricultural purposes).

[0008] The air conditioning system can include an air conditioner, in particular a room air conditioner, which may be arranged on the housing cover. Alternatively, the air conditioning system can include a flow-through chiller, which is arranged outside the housing interior, in particular on an exterior surface of the device, and connected to pipes that run in the housing cover, the base of the housing, and / or the housing wall and carry a heat transfer medium, for example, water. Additives may be mixed with the heat transfer medium for the purpose of frost protection, which lower the freezing point of the heat transfer medium. This ensures particularly efficient cultivation of foodstuffs, especially edible mushrooms.

[0009] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes a drainage line that establishes a (fluidic) connection between the interior of the housing and an external environment, enabling the controlled drainage of liquid from the interior. The drainage line can be connected to, or integrally formed with, a tray, particularly a stainless steel tray. The tray can be mounted on the base of the housing in such a way that a slope is created in the direction of the drainage line. For this purpose, support elements can be provided between the base of the housing and the tray, tapering towards the drainage line. The support elements can be wedge-shaped. This allows for the creation of specific climatic conditions, particularly humidity conditions, within the interior of the housing.retain those which are particularly beneficial for the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms.

[0010] The device can be equipped with a grid connection and power supply to bridge periods of low sunlight. Additionally or alternatively, the device can have integrated PV systems with an energy storage unit. Preferably, however, the device has neither a grid connection nor integrated PV systems, but only a connection for establishing an electrical link with the ground-mounted PV system. The device can include an inverter to directly utilize the electricity produced by the ground-mounted PV system. This allows the device to be operated particularly efficiently and cost-effectively. The device can also include an energy storage unit that can be charged by the ground-mounted PV system.

[0011] According to a preferred embodiment, the electrical connection is located on the outside of the housing cover. This facilitates the electrical connection to the junction box or connector of the photovoltaic module, particularly the electrical connection to the ground-mounted PV system, and thus simplifies the handling of the device. The electrical connection of the device can be arranged such that the electrical connection is established when the device is inserted under the PV module or the ground-mounted PV system.

[0012] According to a preferred embodiment, the housing cover is inclined at least partially, and preferably completely, at an angle to the horizontal. Preferably, the device has a pitched roof. This allows optimal use of the area beneath the ground-mounted PV system, whose PV modules are also typically inclined at an angle to the horizontal, so that the The volume available under the open-space facility can be used even more efficiently.

[0013] According to a preferred embodiment, a liquid tank, in particular a water tank, is provided inside the housing. This enables the creation and maintenance of climatic conditions inside the housing, which can further enhance the efficiency of food production using the device. In particular, the tank can supply liquid to a humidification system and / or a cooling system of the device.

[0014] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes a rainwater collection system that is fluidically connected to the tank. This allows the tank to be automatically filled with rainwater, which then runs off the outside of the housing, particularly the housing lid. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0015] According to a preferred embodiment, the air conditioning device includes a cooling system for cooling the interior of the housing. This enables the creation and maintenance of specific climatic conditions inside the housing, thereby making the cultivation of food using the device even more efficient.

[0016] According to a preferred embodiment, the cooling system comprises lines that run at least partially within the housing wall, the housing cover, and / or the housing base. This allows for particularly efficient cooling of the housing interior. Furthermore, if the lines are mostly located within the housing wall, the housing cover, and / or the housing base rather than inside the housing, the number of shelves for holding the mushroom substrate can be maximized. This enables particularly efficient use of the available volume (beneath the ground-mounted PV system).

[0017] According to a preferred embodiment, the lines are fluidically connected to the tank. This allows the cooling system to be supplied with liquid via the tank, enabling particularly simple, cost-effective, and resource-efficient cooling of the housing interior. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0018] According to a preferred embodiment, the air conditioning unit includes a pump, which is arranged to pump liquid from the tank through the pipes. The pump can also be powered by the PV module (photovoltaic module), in particular the PV module of the ground-mounted PV system under which the device according to the invention can be positioned. This enables particularly simple, cost-effective, and resource-efficient cooling of the housing interior. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0019] According to a preferred embodiment, the climate control system includes a humidification system for humidifying the interior of the housing. This humidification system can also be powered by the PV module (photovoltaic module), in particular the PV module of the ground-mounted PV system under which the device according to the invention can be positioned. This enables a particularly simple, cost-effective, and resource-efficient humidification of the housing interior. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0020] According to a preferred embodiment, the humidification system comprises at least one nozzle, in particular an ultrasonic nebulizer. This allows for a particularly homogeneous moisture distribution inside the housing, making the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient and maximizing the harvest yield.

[0021] According to a preferred embodiment, the at least one nozzle, in particular the at least one ultrasonic nebulizer, is fluidically connected to at least one line of the cooling system. This enables a particularly simple yet multifunctional design of the device. Instead of a separate cooling system and humidification system, it is possible to perform both functions (cooling and humidification) with a single combined system. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0022] According to a preferred embodiment, the air conditioning unit includes a heater, in particular a low-voltage heater, for heating the interior of the housing. The heater can also be powered by the PV module (photovoltaic module), in particular the PV module of a ground-mounted PV system. The device according to the invention can be positioned in any open-air facility and supplied with electricity. The heating system can comprise a heating element located in or on a tray mounted on the bottom of the housing. Alternatively, an electric underfloor heating system can be provided, installed between the bottom of the housing and the tray, particularly a stainless steel tray. It is also conceivable that the heating system includes a moisture-resistant heating element. However, it is particularly preferred that an electric heating mat be attached below the tray, which serves in particular to collect and drain moisture, in order to achieve better and more efficient heat distribution and / or climate control inside the housing. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0023] According to a preferred embodiment, the heating element is designed as a carbon fiber heater and / or comprises carbon heating films. Safe low-voltage current is converted into thermal radiation with virtually no loss in conductive carbon heating films or foils and then evenly distributed into the interior of the housing. This radiant heat primarily warms the surfaces of the housing, resulting in uniform heating of the interior. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, particularly edible mushrooms, even more efficient. Furthermore, it has been found that this measure significantly increases crop yield.

[0024] According to a preferred embodiment, the heating system is arranged such that the heating elements are located at least partially, and preferably completely, in the housing wall, the housing lid, the housing base, and / or in a wall of the tank. This allows for particularly efficient heating of the housing interior. Furthermore, if the heating elements are located primarily in the housing wall, the housing lid, and / or the housing base rather than in the housing interior, the number of shelves for holding mushroom substrate can be maximized. This enables particularly efficient use of the available volume (below the ground-mounted photovoltaic system) and increases the harvest yield. Integrating the heating elements into the tank wall also reliably prevents the liquid from freezing.Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0025] According to a preferred embodiment, the heating element is arranged in the housing wall in such a way that the conductors running in the housing wall are at least partially surrounded by the heating elements or attached to them. This ensures that the freezing of liquids in the pipes is reliably prevented. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using this device.

[0026] According to a preferred embodiment, the housing wall, the housing lid, and / or the housing base are formed by wall elements, which have a layered structure. This allows the use of layers with different functionalities in the housing wall, thereby making the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient with this device.

[0027] According to a preferred embodiment, each wall element comprises a core layer made of, in particular, thermally insulating material, which core layer is preferably covered on both sides by structural elements. The functional layers used here are an insulating layer and two layers serving structural integrity. This allows for a particularly advantageous arrangement of heating elements and / or cooling system lines, which heating elements and / or lines can preferably be arranged between the (thermally) insulating layer and a structural element. This enables the creation and maintenance of optimal climatic conditions inside the housing, thereby making the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient and increasing the harvest yield.

[0028] Preferably, the wall elements each comprise two sheet metal outer shells, which are shear-resistant and bonded to an insulating core made of polyurethane (PUR), polyisocyanurate (PIR), and / or mineral wool. This represents a particularly advantageous design of the wall elements, ensuring the required structural integrity and thermal insulation while significantly reducing the device's weight. This not only improves the device's ease of handling for the user but also increases the maximum achievable crop yield.

[0029] According to a preferred embodiment, the conductors and / or heating elements are arranged in the core layer. According to a particularly preferred embodiment, the conductors and / or heating elements are arranged at least partially in the core layer. The conductors and / or heating elements can be arranged in recesses in the core layer, which are open towards the structural element facing the interior of the housing. This allows for particularly efficient heating or cooling of the housing interior. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0030] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes a control unit for controlling the air conditioning system. This control unit is configured to control the air conditioning system based on a received control signal from an external transmitter. The control unit allows the device components described above, in particular the air conditioner, the cooling system, the pump, the humidification system, and / or the heating system, to be controlled in order to further optimize the growing conditions for food, especially edible mushrooms. The control can be based on a user-generated control signal, enabling remote control of the growing conditions inside the housing.

[0031] According to a preferred embodiment, the control unit is configured to send operating data from the climate control system to an external receiver. This enables remote monitoring of the device and thus a rapid response to adverse climatic conditions, which may arise, for example, due to the failure of one or more electrical components inside the housing. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, particularly edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0032] The control unit can be configured to implement a Maximum Power Point Tracking (MPPT) system for optimal use of solar power, as well as battery storage management to ensure a continuous power supply to the electrical components of the device, such as fans, nebulizers, heaters and lighting.

[0033] By using sensors located in or on the device, such as CO2, humidity, temperature, and / or air pressure sensors, comprehensive monitoring and control of the internal climate is possible. The control unit is designed to process sensor data and regulate the device's electrical components.

[0034] Furthermore, the control unit enables data to be sent to external receivers and data to be received from external transmitters, thus enabling remote monitoring and remote control of the device (via the Internet).

[0035] By combining power control, sensors and (cloud) connectivity, the device's control unit offers an advanced solution for automating and optimizing the room climate to maximize mushroom growth.

[0036] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes a camera, a temperature sensor, and / or a hygrometer for monitoring the interior of the housing. In particular, combining one or all of these sensors allows for highly precise monitoring and control of the climate inside the housing. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient using the device.

[0037] According to a preferred embodiment, the device includes a system for measuring and controlling the CO2 content inside the housing. This allows for a further increase in crop yield.

[0038] According to a preferred embodiment, the device, in particular the base of the housing, comprises a layer of clay. This naturally contributes to a particularly advantageous climate control of the housing interior, especially with regard to humidity and temperature. Overall, this reduces the manufacturing costs of the device, for example, by eliminating the need for additional heating, and makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient.

[0039] One object of the invention is also achieved by a system comprising a photovoltaic module, in particular a ground-mounted photovoltaic system, and at least one, preferably several, of the devices described above, wherein an electrical connection exists between the photovoltaic module, in particular the ground-mounted photovoltaic system, and the respective device, in particular the air conditioning unit of the respective device. This system makes it possible to utilize the area available under a ground-mounted photovoltaic system that would otherwise be unused for the cultivation of food, in particular edible mushrooms. In particular, the air conditioning unit, and optionally also other electrical components, of the (respective) device can be supplied with power by the PV module or by the ground-mounted photovoltaic system.This enables the agricultural use of areas that are currently unused, the efficient rearing of foodstuffs and an increase in crop yield.

[0040] According to a preferred embodiment, the connection is made by a detachable electrical connection, in particular by a plug connection, The device is designed to allow for the modular retrofitting of existing ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) systems with the device according to the invention. The PV system itself requires no modifications. The device according to the invention can be positioned below the system or slid under it and electrically connected to the system or a PV module within the system. Once the shelf(s) of the device have been provided with mushroom substrate, no further preparation is required. The climate control system creates optimal climatic conditions inside the housing for the cultivation of food, particularly edible mushrooms. Overall, this makes the cultivation of food, especially edible mushrooms, even more efficient. Brief description of the characters

[0041] Preferred embodiments of the invention are described in more detail below with reference to the drawings. This description is not intended to restrict the inventive concept or to provide an exhaustive account. The drawings show: Fig. 1 shows a schematic representation of a ground-mounted PV system, Fig. 2 shows a schematic representation of a wall element, Fig. 3 shows a schematic representation of a device, Fig. 4 shows a schematic representation of a device, Fig. 5 shows a schematic representation of a device, Fig. 6 shows a schematic representation of a wall element, Fig. 7 shows a schematic representation of a device, Fig. 8 shows a schematic representation of a device in a rear view, Fig. 9 is a schematic representation of the device from Fig. 8 in a front view, Fig. 10 is a schematic exploded view of the device from Fig. 8, and Fig. 11 is a schematic exploded view of the device from Fig. 8. Ways to implement the invention

[0042] Fig. 1 shows a system according to the invention, which system comprises a ground-mounted photovoltaic (PV) system 11 and at least one device 10 according to the invention (here also referred to as "SOL BOX"), wherein the device 10 is arranged under a PV module 16 of the ground-mounted PV system 11 such that the connection of the device 10 is connected to a junction box or connector of the PV module 16. A housing cover 1 of the device 10 is aligned parallel to the PV module 16. The connection between the device's connection and the junction box or connector is... The connection of the PV module 16 can be established by inserting the device 10 into the space available under the respective PV module 16 and released again by pulling the device 10 out of this space. Preferably, plug connectors are used to establish the electrical connection. Fig. 1 illustrates the volume that is formed between the (ground) area covered by the PV module 16 of the ground-mounted PV system 16 and the PV module 16, which remains unused in the prior art.

[0043] Fig. 2 shows the layer structure of a wall element 55 according to the invention in one possible embodiment. This element has a core layer 36 (made of a thermally insulating core material), which core layer 36 is clad (here on both sides) with a plastic layer 37. Outer coatings 38 can be applied to the plastic layer 37. In the embodiment shown, these outer coatings 38 are formed by gelcoat layers (hard lacquer layers) in order to seal the plastic layer 37 – and the underlying core layer 36 – against moisture (hydrolysis) and to protect them from UV radiation and pressure damage.

[0044] Fig. 3 shows a schematic sectional view of a device arranged and connected as intended under the PV module 16 of the ground-mounted PV system 11. The electrical connection between the ground-mounted PV system 11 or the PV module 10 of the ground-mounted PV system 11 and the device 10 or an electrically operated air conditioning unit 39 of the device 10 is not shown. The device 10 comprises an air conditioning unit 39, which includes a humidification system 40 for humidifying the interior of a housing 18, a (water) tank 41, a rainwater collection device 42 connected to the tank 41, and three shelves 43 for holding mushroom substrate 44. The shelves 43 can be rigidly or detachably attached to a housing wall 45 of the device 10. In particular, one or all of the shelves 43 can be slidably attached to the housing wall 45; Fig.Figure 4 illustrates a preferred embodiment of the device 10 with a pull-out shelf or compartment 43. The housing wall 45 can comprise one or more wall elements 55.

[0045] Fig. 5 shows a schematic sectional view of a device 10 arranged and connected as intended under the PV module 16 of the ground-mounted PV system 11. In addition to the components shown in Fig. 3, the air conditioning unit 39 in this embodiment of the device 10 comprises a cooling system 46 for cooling the interior of the housing 18. This cooling system 46 includes lines 47, which run at least partially in the housing wall 45, in the housing cover 1, and / or in a housing base 48 of the device 10 (here only...). (schematically indicated). By means of a pump 49 of the air conditioning unit 39, liquid (water) is pumped from the tank 41 through the lines 47 to cool the interior of the housing 18 (water cooling). The lines 47 can also be connected, as shown here, to nozzles 50 of the humidification system 40. The lines 47 can return to the tank 41 to enable a recirculation of the cooling liquid (here: rainwater). As described above, the tank 41 is filled via the collection device 42 with rainwater 51 flowing from the device 10 and / or the PV module 16. The direction of flow of the liquid in the cooling system 46 is indicated inside the housing by arrows running parallel to the base, wall, and lid of the housing. The humidification of the (here: one) shelf 43 is also indicated by arrows, namely the arrows running vertically inside the housing.Rainwater 51, which runs along an outside of the PV module 16 in the direction of the collection device 42, is indicated by arrows running outside the device.

[0046] Fig. 6 shows the core layer 36 of the wall element 45 with pipes 47 of the cooling system 46 and heating elements 52 of a heater of the air conditioning unit 39 running therein. The heater is designed as a carbon fiber heater.

[0047] Fig. 7 shows a device without viewer-side wall elements, i.e., with partially removed wall elements to allow a view into the interior of the device 10. Visible are the tank 41, the collection device 42 designed as a rain gutter, which is fluidically connected to the tank 41 via a supply line 53, lines 47 designed as irrigation pipes, which are also fluidically connected to the tank 41, a technical unit 54 of a control unit for controlling the air conditioning system and, if applicable, other components of the device 10, and special wall elements 55 (see above) mediated heating / cooling (only indicated).

[0048] Figures 8, 9, 10, and 11 relate to a further embodiment of the device 10. In this embodiment, the device 10 comprises the housing cover 1 and the housing base 48. The housing cover 1 and the housing base 48 are connected to each other by the housing wall 45 to enclose the housing interior 18. The housing wall 45 can—as is the case here—be partially formed by a door 13, through which the housing interior 18 is accessible.

[0049] As can be seen particularly well from Fig. 10, the housing wall 45 comprises a first wall element 2, a second wall element 3 opposite it, a third wall element 4, a fourth wall element 5 opposite it, and a fifth wall element 6, which fifth wall element 6 forms an end-face section of the The housing wall 45 forms a section and is thus arranged transversely, in particular at right angles to the first, second, third, and fourth wall elements 2, 3, 4, and 5. A section of the housing wall 45 opposite this end-face section is formed by the door 13, which door 13 is mounted on a frame 12 via hinges 14. The frame 12 is attached laterally to the first wall element 2 and to the second wall element 3. A (lower) sill 9 of the frame 12 is attached to the housing base 48 via a strip 33. An (upper) cross member of the frame 12 is attached to the housing cover 1, more precisely, to a sixth wall element 7 and a seventh wall element 8, which sixth and seventh wall elements 7, 8 are part of a shed roof through which the housing cover 1 is formed.

[0050] The wall elements 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 are mounted on a frame, which frame is connected to the housing base 48 and comprises two frame vertical struts 17, which extend parallel to each other in the vertical direction in the end section of the housing wall 45; two frame cross struts 20, which are arranged parallel to each other in the end section and the opposite section of the housing wall 45, but offset vertically from each other, so that the end-side frame cross strut 20 is lower than the door-side frame cross strut 20; and two frame longitudinal struts 19, which extend between the two frame cross struts 20.

[0051] On the first and third wall elements 2, 4 as well as on the second and fourth wall elements 3, 5, first rails 21, second rails 22 and third rails 23 are attached in pairs to allow shelves (not shown here) to be slidably mounted on the housing wall 45 for receiving mushroom substrate.

[0052] The edges of the device 10 are covered by a first external angle 31 and a second external angle 32 (front side), by the frame 12 (door side), by a first pitched roof connection 24 and a second pitched roof connection 25 (transverse side), and by a first gable end profile 29 and a second gable end profile 30 (longitudinal side). The first, second, third, fourth, and fifth wall elements 2, 3, 4, 5, 6 are supported on the housing base 48 by a first base profile 26 (for the fifth wall element 6), by a second base profile 27 (for the second wall element 3 and the fourth wall element 5), and by a third base profile 28 (for the first wall element 2 and the third wall element 4).

[0053] On the housing base 48, several support elements 34 run parallel to each other in the longitudinal direction, parallel to the second and third base profiles 27, 28. The support elements 34 taper towards the end face – that is, they gradually become thinner towards the end face section of the housing wall 45. This creates a slope that results in a load supported on the housing base 48 via these support elements 34. The tray 15 is inclined at an angle to the housing base 48. This allows liquid collected in the tray 15 to drain away via a drainage line 35 of the tray 15. This drainage line 35 establishes a (fluidic) connection between the interior of the housing 18 and an external environment of the device 10, enabling controlled drainage of liquid from the interior of the housing. The drainage line 35 can be connected to the tray 15, which may, for example, be made of stainless steel, or it can be formed integrally with the tray 15.

[0054] Without reference to individual figures, the following section discusses individual aspects of the invention or exemplary embodiments:

[0055] The invention presents a smart solution to the aforementioned problem; it is a device in the form of a container (or box) that can be positioned beneath ground-mounted photovoltaic systems in such a way as to make optimal use of the available space underneath. For this purpose, the lid of the housing can have the same inclination as the associated PV module of the system, under which the box is positioned. The box can include several (horizontally oriented) shelves on which food (especially edible mushrooms) can be cultivated. The shelves are slidably mounted on the housing wall to facilitate handling (e.g., during harvesting).It is essential that the box includes connections that enable the electronic components of the box to be supplied by the associated PV module and / or by the associated ground-mounted PV system under which the device according to the invention is arranged; these connections can preferably be provided on the housing cover in order to be as close as possible to the PV module.

[0056] Furthermore, the box can include a collection container for (rain)water, which is connected via a pipe to a water tank located inside the housing. The water tank supplies a cooling system, which is preferably integrated into a housing wall of the device and / or into the housing lid and / or a housing base, and is supplied by a pump also located inside the housing. In addition, the water tank can also supply a humidification system, which includes at least one nozzle, preferably located on the inside of the housing lid, and serves to regulate the humidity. Preferably, the at least one nozzle, and particularly preferably all nozzles of the humidification system, are designed as ultrasonic nebulizers.

[0057] The housing wall can also incorporate a heating element that can be powered by the associated PV module. This is particularly advantageous The heating element may be designed or include a carbon (fiber) heating element; alternatively or additionally, the heating element may be designed or include one or more carbon heating films.

[0058] The water tank can also be heated by means of a (carbon fiber) heater to prevent the water from freezing. Furthermore, pipes for the cooling and / or humidification system can be located in the housing wall, the housing lid, and / or the housing base, particularly in the area of ​​the heater embedded in the housing wall, the housing lid, or the housing base, to ensure frost protection.

[0059] Wall elements of the housing, which can form at least sections of the housing wall, the housing cover, and / or the housing base, can be self-supporting and / or of lightweight construction. A layered structure (sandwich construction) can be used in particular. A core material of the wall elements serves as insulation; the cooling and / or heating lines can also be arranged within the core material. The layer of the wall elements containing the core material, also referred to as the core layer, can be covered or clad on both sides with structural elements, preferably made of plastic sheets (especially glass fiber reinforced plastic, "GRP sheets"). These structural elements can absorb mechanical forces and provide the device with structural integrity, which leads to increased reliability and functionality of the device, especially under the influence of weather conditions.In addition, the structural elements can include protective coatings, for example to make the outer surfaces of the device water-repellent.

[0060] Inside the device, a computing unit or embedded system, such as a Raspberry Pi, can be housed as a control unit for the electronic components (e.g., the water pump, heating, humidification system). This allows both the device itself, in which this computer is installed, and other boxes to be operated remotely. For example, the temperature and humidity conditions of all boxes operating in a specific area (e.g., within a 1-hectare area, up to 250 boxes) can be controlled collectively or individually to provide optimal growing conditions for a particular variety of edible mushroom. The user can view and control the status of the device via a computer program, such as an app, or a web interface.In particular, the user can assign a specific type of edible mushroom to a particular growing box, whereupon the climate conditions in the box are automatically regulated according to that mushroom variety. This is done via web access or a web-based user interface. A user-friendly interface is provided that allows a single user to manage and monitor multiple devices according to the invention for cultivating edible mushrooms (or more generally, for food production). In particular, users can access the web interface, and thus the device(s), from any internet-enabled device, view real-time measurement data for each device, and adjust operating parameters as needed. The control (operating program) of each device can also be manually controlled via the web interface. Furthermore, the web interface allows users to manually select a suitable operating program from several options or to switch to automatic operation, in which operating parameters are automatically adjusted according to predefined schedules and / or based on sensor data from the respective device.Furthermore, detailed records of all sensor data, operating parameters, and operating times can be accessed via the web interface. Users can opt to receive notifications, particularly via email or SMS, to stay informed of deviations from target values ​​or upcoming events.

[0061] The following section will discuss individual aspects of the invention in more detail:

[0062] The closed sandwich construction, a layered design utilizing preferably fiber-reinforced plastics, provides a weight-optimized structure that enables particularly easy and resource-efficient transport. Furthermore, this layered construction allows for a seal against water and moisture ingress, similar to that used in boatbuilding. The exterior of the housing wall, lid, and / or base can be coated with a UV- and / or weather-resistant finish. The structural elements forming the load-bearing layer of the housing wall can be made of or comprise a fiber-reinforced plastic. The fiber reinforcement can consist of, or comprise, a natural fiber such as hemp or flax encased in a bio-based epoxy matrix.The core material's primary function is to provide thermal insulation for the device. Natural materials like balsa wood or recycled EPS (expanded polystyrene) can be used. The inner surface of the housing can also be coated with a moisture-resistant finish to prevent mold or mildew growth. Thanks to its lightweight design, the box is easy to transport and can be positioned with ease beneath ground-mounted photovoltaic systems. This lightweight construction allows for simple setup, enabling food production where it is needed, resulting in shorter transport routes and a reduced carbon footprint.

[0063] The device can be equipped with a cooling and heating system (or with a cooling and a heating system). In combination with a humidification system specifically developed for the invention, ideal climatic conditions for cultivating mushrooms, as well as other foods, can be created. The humidification system, which can also be called a humidification module, is supplied—like the cooling system—by rainwater running off the (inclined) PV module. This creates a self-sufficient system and enables the device to be used as a stand-alone system.

[0064] The heating, cooling, ventilation, and humidification of the device can be controlled via software or the control unit on which this software runs. Users can manually adjust target values ​​for operational parameters, such as temperature, humidity, CO2 content, or operating time, to create optimal conditions for cultivating food, particularly mushrooms. The control unit ensures that the defined target values ​​are reached and maintained by selectively controlling flaps and other electrical components of the device. When loading the device with substrate for food cultivation (especially mushrooms), a QR code printed on the substrate packaging or other information can be scanned—either manually by the user or via a camera located inside the device.The control unit allows the ideal program (operating program) for the respective substrate to be loaded in order to automatically create the optimized climatic conditions in the device in order to achieve the best possible yield.

[0065] All data can be delivered to the user's device (e.g., smartphone) via an app. Integrated sensors in the device provide data that can be analyzed and used to control the microclimate inside the box. Humidification, heating, cooling, and ventilation create a constant climate year-round, tailored to the specific food being cultivated (especially mushrooms). Furthermore, the closed housing prevents pests from entering the box. This enables organic cultivation without the use of chemical additives.

[0066] A shelving system with extendable drawers allows for efficient use of the available space within the device. Harvesting and loading can be carried out (ergonomically optimized) outside the device.

[0067] Temperature sensors and hygrometers can be used to record actual data within the device and thus provide the necessary control impulses for heating, cooling, ventilation or humidification.

[0068] An integrated system allows the CO2 level in the box to be regulated and optimized for the specific food cultivation. This makes successful food cultivation easier even for inexperienced users (for example, in mushroom cultivation).

[0069] A layer of clay may be provided at the bottom of the enclosure, acting as a natural humidity regulator. Alternatively, other means of regulating humidity may be provided.

[0070] If required, the device can be heated by an electric heater, such as a low-voltage heater, which can be integrated into the housing wall. The interior of the housing can also be cooled by a cooling system integrated into the walls, supplied with rainwater. The humidity inside the housing can be regulated by a nozzle system that sprays water. For this purpose, rainwater running off the PV modules can be collected and stored in a water tank inside the device; this collected water can be used both for cooling and for regulating humidity – i.e., to supply the nozzle(s).

[0071] The growth process can be monitored using one or more cameras, allowing the ideal harvest time to be determined without requiring users to check the equipment on-site. Alternatively or additionally, the current status of the cultivated food can be automatically monitored using image recognition software.

[0072] The described concept is unique on the market and not yet available in this form. Cultivating mushrooms or vegetables under open-field photovoltaic systems has not yet been implemented. The present concept can be analogously applied to photovoltaic systems installed on industrial roofs. This would enable the cultivation of food on flat industrial roofs.

[0073] To enable year-round cultivation of mushrooms or vegetables under PV modules, the device must be able to operate within a constant climatic window. High temperatures, such as those increasingly occurring in summer even in temperate latitudes (Central Europe), around 36°C and above, pose a particular challenge, necessitating cooling. Furthermore, sub-zero temperatures occurring in winter must be compensated for by heating. The device according to the invention is designed to be resource-efficient and require little energy. This places high demands on the insulation, which should also be made from renewable raw materials. For heating, an approach from mold making can be used, in which electrically conductive carbon fibers are integrated into the wall and roof panels of the housing to insulate the interior. to heat the device. The cooling system can include pipes, in particular hoses, that are integrated into the housing wall. (Cold) water is pumped through the hoses to cool the interior via the walls.

[0074] Agricultural land occupied by ground-mounted photovoltaic systems can not only continue to be cultivated using the device according to the invention, but can also be used for the production or cultivation of food throughout the year. Profitability is increased many times over compared to conventional agriculture, since edible mushrooms in particular are a very high-priced food product, while the effort associated with their cultivation is significantly reduced by the invention. Furthermore, short-term harvest yields can be achieved; when cultivating edible mushrooms using the invention, the cycle from ordering (loading the device with substrate) to harvest can be shortened to as little as three weeks.

[0075] The system is, apart from harvesting, self-sustaining, because thanks to the integrated water collection and treatment system and the use of electricity from nearby photovoltaic modules, the food grows almost automatically. By distributing the photovoltaic systems, mostly near urban areas, a large-scale supply of fresh, regional food can be provided. Furthermore, the added benefits of combining photovoltaic systems with food production would provide strong arguments for the permitting process for such systems. The advantages are therefore obvious, both economically and socially. List of reference signs 1 Housing cover 2 first wall element 3 second wall element 4 third wall element 5 fourth wall element 6 fifth wall element 7 sixth wall element 8 seventh wall element 9 Threshold 10 Device 11 PV open-field systems 12 frame 13 Door 14 hinge 15 tubs 16 PV modules 17 Frame vertical strut 18 Case interior 19 Frame longitudinal strut 20 frame crossbar 21 first rail 22 second rail 23 third rail 24 first pitched roof connection 25 second pitched roof connection 26 first base profile 27 second base profile 28 third base profile 29 first gable profile 30 second gable profile 31 first outside angle 32 second outside angle 33 bar 34 Support element 35 Drainage pipe 36 core layer 37 plastic layer 38 Exterior coating 39 Air conditioning unit 40 humidification system 41 Tank 42 Containment device 43 shelves 44 Mushroom substrate 45 Housing wall 46 Cooling system 47 Management 48 Case base 49 pump 50 nozzle 51 runoff rainwater 52 Heating element 53 Supply line 54 Technical Unit 55 wall element

Claims

Patent claims 1. Device (10) for cultivating edible mushrooms, comprising a. at least one housing with a housing interior (18), which housing interior (18) is enclosed by a housing cover (1), a housing base (48) and a housing wall (45) arranged between the housing cover (1) and the housing base (48), b. at least one compartment for receiving mushroom substrate, which compartment is fastened to the housing wall (45) in the housing interior (18) between the housing cover (1) and the housing base (48), c. at least one electrically operable air conditioning device (39) for air conditioning the housing interior (18), and d. at least one electrical connection for establishing an electrical connection to a junction box or a connection plug of a photovoltaic module (16).

2. Device (10) according to claim 1, wherein the electrical connection is arranged on an outer side of the housing cover (1).

3. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 or 2, wherein the housing cover (1) is inclined at least in sections, preferably completely, at an angle to the horizontal.

4. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 3, wherein a tank (41) for liquid, in particular a water tank, is provided in the housing interior (18).

5. Device (10) according to claim 4, wherein the device (10) has a collecting device (42) for rainwater, which collecting device (42) is fluidly connected to the tank (41).

6. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the air conditioning device (39) comprises a cooling system (46) for cooling the housing interior (18).

7. Device (10) according to claim 6, wherein the cooling system (46) comprises lines (47), which lines (47) run at least partially in the housing wall (45), in the housing cover (1) and / or in the housing base (48).

8. Device (10) according to claim 7, wherein the lines (47) are fluidically connected to the tank (41).

9. Device (10) according to one of claims 7 or 8, wherein the air conditioning device (39) comprises a pump (49), which pump (49) is arranged to pump liquid from the tank (41) through the lines (47).

10. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the air conditioning device (39) comprises a humidification system (40) for humidifying the housing interior (18).

11. Device (10) according to claim 10, wherein the humidification system (40) comprises at least one nozzle (50), in particular an ultrasonic nebulizer.

12. Device (10) according to claim 11, wherein the at least one nozzle (50), in particular the at least one ultrasonic nebulizer, is fluidically connected to at least one line (47) of the cooling system (46).

13. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the air conditioning device (39) comprises a heater, in particular a low-voltage heater, for heating the housing interior (18).

14. Device (10) according to claim 13, wherein the heater is designed as a carbon fiber heater and / or comprises carbon heating foils.

15. Device (10) according to one of claims 13 or 14, wherein the heater is arranged such that heating elements (52) of the heater are arranged at least partially, preferably completely, in the housing wall (45), in the housing cover (1 ), in the housing base (48) and / or in a wall of the tank (41 ).

16. Device (10) according to one of claims 13 to 15, wherein the heater is arranged in the housing wall (45) in such a way that the lines (47) running in the housing wall (45) are at least partially surrounded by the heating elements (52) or rest against them.

17. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the housing wall (45), the housing cover (1) and / or the housing base (48) are formed by wall elements (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 55), which wall elements (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 55) have a layered structure.

18. Device (10) according to claim 17, wherein the wall elements (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 55) each have a core layer (36) made of, in particular, thermally insulating material which core layer (36) is covered, preferably on both sides, by structural elements.

19. Device (10) according to claim 17, wherein the lines (47) and / or the heating elements (52) are arranged in the core layer (36).

20. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 19, wherein the device (10) comprises a control unit (54) for controlling the air conditioning device (39), which control unit (54) is configured to control the air conditioning device (39) on the basis of a received control signal from an external transmitter.

21. Device (10) according to claim 20, wherein the control unit (54) is configured to send operating data of the air conditioning device (39) to an external receiver.

22. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 21, wherein the device (10) comprises a camera, a temperature sensor and / or a hygrometer for monitoring the housing interior (18).

23. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 22, wherein the device (10) comprises a system for measuring and regulating the CO2 content in the housing interior (18).

24. Device (10) according to one of claims 1 to 23, wherein the device (10), in particular the housing base (48), comprises a clay layer.

25. System comprising a photovoltaic module (16), in particular a photovoltaic open-space system, and at least one, preferably several, of the devices (10) according to one of the preceding claims, wherein an electrical connection exists between the photovoltaic module (16), in particular the photovoltaic open-space system, and the device (10), in particular the air conditioning device (39) of the device (10).

26. System according to claim 25, characterized in that the connection is formed by a detachable electrical connection, in particular by a plug connection.

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