Light source unit included in vertical hydroponic apparatus

Abstract

The purpose of the present invention is to provide a light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic apparatus, wherein the light source unit can be arranged with a high degree of freedom, the number of light source units therein can be easily increased and decreased, and the hydroponic apparatus can be easily designed and constructed. The light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is installed in a vertical hydroponic apparatus in which ports for cultivating crops are arranged in multiple layers in a structure formed of a frame so as to provide light energy to the crops. The light source unit may include: a main body having a straight pipe shape with opposite open ends, having an inner space divided into a control unit, a cooling unit, and a light source unit along the height direction, and emitting light that is directed to the crops; a connection cover configured to cover opposite open ends of the main body, provided with a power port and a cooling port, and configured in two types according to male and female structures of the power port and the cooling port; and a fastening member having a lower end fastened to the connection cover and an upper end fastened to the frame.

Description

Light source unit included in vertical hydroponic system

[0001] The present invention relates to a light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device, and more specifically, to a light source unit included in a modular vertical hydroponic cultivation device that can be freely expanded, reduced, and its installation location changed in accordance with the structure of the hydroponic cultivation device.

[0002] Vertical hydroponic systems, also known as vertical farms, are seeing a global expansion in their use due to the development of hydroponic or nutrient solution technologies.

[0003] These vertical farms are typically designed and constructed to fit a specific space within a container or building, depending on the farm, as they require installation of facilities such as piping and lighting to supply nutrients and light energy to all crops.

[0004] However, depending on the type of crop being grown, it is necessary to change the height between layers of the cultivation pot, and for this purpose, Korean Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0035302 discloses a vertical farm in which the height and horizontal position of the cultivation pot can be adjusted. However, the vertical farm of Patent Publication No. 10-2020-0035302 also requires the design of frames, etc. to fit a given space, and custom manufacturing of parts is required, so it takes a lot of time and money to build a new farm.

[0005] The present invention has been devised to solve at least some of the problems of the above-mentioned prior art, and as one aspect, it is intended to provide a light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device that has a high degree of freedom in arrangement, is easy to expand and reduce in number, and is easy to design and construct.

[0006] A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation system according to one embodiment of the present invention is a device that provides light energy to crops by being installed in a vertical hydroponic cultivation system in which crop cultivation ports are arranged in multiple layers in a structure formed of a frame, and which has a straight tube shape with both ends open, and an internal space divided into a control unit, a cooling unit, and a light source unit along the height direction, and which may include a main body that emits light to irradiate crops; a connection cover configured to cover both open ends of the main body and having a power port and a cooling port, and configured in two types according to the male and female structures of the power port and the cooling port; and a fastener whose lower end is fastened to the connection cover and whose upper end is fastened to the frame.

[0007] In one embodiment, the light source unit includes a lighting module that generates light to be illuminated on the crop and a lens that emits the light generated by the lighting module, the control unit is arranged at one end of the length direction of the main body and includes a control module that controls power and dimming of the lighting module, and the cooling unit is positioned between the light source unit and the control unit and may include a refrigerant pipe that exchanges heat with the lighting module to forcibly cool heat generated from the lighting module by water cooling or air cooling.

[0008] In addition, in one embodiment, when the female type connection cover and the male type connection cover are connected to each other and a plurality of main bodies are connected to each other, the lighting modules provided in the plurality of main bodies connected to each other can be electrically connected to each other through the power port, and the refrigerant pipes provided in the plurality of main bodies connected to each other can be in fluid communication with each other through the cooling port so that the refrigerant can flow through each other.

[0009] Additionally, in one embodiment, when a plurality of the power ports are connected to each other, a control signal for controlling power and dimming of the control module can be shared.

[0010] In addition, the light source unit included in the vertical hydroponic cultivation system according to one embodiment of the present invention further includes a magnet coupled to the connection cover, and can be attracted to the frame through the magnetic force of the magnet.

[0011] According to one embodiment of the present invention having such a configuration, the effect of high degree of freedom in design and construction of vertical farms can be obtained.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a vertical hydroponic cultivation device according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0013] Figure 2 is a plan view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0014] Figure 3 is a front view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0015] Figure 4 is a side view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0016] Figure 5 is a plan view of a gutter included in the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0017] Figure 6 is a front view of a gutter included in the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0018] Figure 7 is an exploded perspective view of a frame included in the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 1.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a side view showing one example of various assembly embodiments of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device shown in FIG. 1.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a perspective view showing another example of various assembly embodiments of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device shown in FIG. 1.

[0021] Figure 10 is a front perspective view of a vertical hydroponic cultivation device according to another embodiment of the present invention.

[0022] Figure 11 is a rear perspective view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 10.

[0023] Figure 12 is a plan view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 10.

[0024] Figure 13 is a front view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 10.

[0025] Figure 14 is a side view of the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 10.

[0026] Figure 15 is an exploded perspective view of a frame included in the vertical hydroponic cultivation device illustrated in Figure 10.

[0027] FIG. 16 is a perspective view illustrating a plurality of light source units connected to a vertical hydroponic cultivation device according to embodiments of the present invention.

[0028] Fig. 17 is a perspective view showing a unit of the light source unit illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0029] Fig. 18 is a front view of the light source unit illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0030] Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of the connection portion of the two light source units illustrated in Fig. 16.

[0031] Fig. 20 is a perspective view showing two light source units shown in Fig. 19 connected.

[0032] Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the light source unit illustrated in Fig. 19.

[0033] Fig. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a light source unit according to another embodiment.

[0034] Fig. 23 is a perspective view of the light source unit illustrated in Fig. 22.

[0035] Figures 24 to 27 are perspective and side views of two types of connection covers fastened to the light source unit illustrated in Figure 22.

[0036] Fig. 28 is a side view of a light source unit according to another embodiment.

[0037] Fig. 29 is a front view of a connection cover attached to the light source unit illustrated in Fig. 28.

[0038] Fig. 30 is a side view showing a plurality of light source units illustrated in Fig. 28 installed in a frame.

[0039] Fig. 31 is a front view showing a plurality of light source units illustrated in Fig. 28 installed in a frame.

[0040] The terminology used in this specification is solely for the purpose of describing specific embodiments and is not intended to limit the present invention. Furthermore, the singular expressions used herein include the plural expressions unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0041]

[0042] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0043] A vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention constitutes a vertical farm in which a plurality of cultivation ports, which are structures for accommodating crops (C), are arranged horizontally and in a plurality of layers vertically.

[0044] A vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention comprises a cultivation port consisting of a gutter (140) to be described later, and a grow bag (G) in which a plurality of crops (C) are planted can be accommodated in one gutter (140).

[0045] A vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention has a frame as a basic structure for supporting the gutter (140) in the horizontal and vertical directions, and the frame is composed of a plurality of unit parts assembled to form a unit frame, and a plurality of unit frames are connected to each other to form a rack structure capable of arranging a plurality of gutters (140) in the horizontal and vertical directions.

[0046] Therefore, the vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention has expandability in that unit frames can be connected to each other, and thus can provide a very high degree of freedom in terms of design, expansion, reduction, and deformation.

[0047]

[0048] First, with reference to FIGS. 1 to 7, a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0049] Here, FIGS. 1 to 4 are a perspective view, a plan view, a front view, and a side view of a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention, and FIGS. 5 and 6 are a plan view and a front view of a gutter (140). And, FIG. 7 is an exploded perspective view of the frame.

[0050] As illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 7, a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention includes a pillar (110), a horizontal bar (120), and a vertical bar (130) constituting a frame, and may include a gutter (140), a supply pipe (150S), a drainage pipe (150D), and a light source unit (180).

[0051] The above frame may be configured to include a pillar (110), a horizontal bar (120), and a vertical bar (130) as shown in FIG. 7.

[0052] The above pillar (110) is a long, straight member that is erected vertically and arranged in a plurality of pieces spaced apart from each other to support a gutter (140) arranged in a plurality of layers in the vertical direction at a considerable height from the ground.

[0053] For example, the column (110) may be composed of a square, a rod or an angle.

[0054] In one embodiment, the column (110) may be cut to have a preset height as shown in FIG. 7, but is not limited thereto, and the column (110) may be manufactured in unit length and connected using separate parts (not shown) that can connect the columns (110) to each other along the length of the columns (110) so that the length of the column (110) can be freely extended and shortened.

[0055] In addition, in order to prevent horizontal adjustment and shaking of the assembled frame, the pillar (110) has a structure in which height adjustment feet (111) can be attached to both ends.

[0056] The above crossbar (120) can be connected between two columns (110) to determine the horizontal spacing between the two columns (110). In one embodiment, the crossbar (120) can be configured to be longer than the horizontal width of the gutter (140) so that a gutter (140) to be described later can be placed between the columns (110).

[0057] These crossbars (120) can be arranged in multiple numbers with intervals along the longitudinal direction of the column (110), i.e., along the height direction of the hydroponic cultivation device (100). The intervals between the crossbars (120) determine the number of cultivation pot layers of the hydroponic cultivation device (100).

[0058] In addition, the crossbar (120) may be provided with a fastening flange (121) protruding downward at both ends as shown in Fig. 7 so that it can be easily disassembled and assembled from the column (110) individually and does not sag or fall off due to a load in the assembled state, and may be bolted to the column (110) through the fastening flange (121).

[0059] At this time, the pillar (110) may be provided with a plurality of bolt holes spaced apart along the length of the pillar (110) so that the crossbars (120) can be placed at various heights.

[0060] The above vertical bar (130) is connected between two columns (110) and can determine the vertical spacing between the columns (110).

[0061] The vertical bar (130), like the horizontal bar (120), has a fastening flange (131) at both ends and can be bolted to the pillar (110).

[0062] In one embodiment, the horizontal bar (120) and the vertical bar (130) may be manufactured with the same thickness and fastening flanges (121, 131) so that they can be freely interchangeable with each other depending on the shape of the hydroponic cultivation device (100) with different lengths.

[0063] Additionally, in one embodiment, the crossbar (120) may be connected between two vertical bars (130) arranged at the same height as the pillars (110) to maintain the structural stability of the frame and stably support the gutter (140) as shown in FIG. 7.

[0064] Meanwhile, a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention can be installed inside a container.

[0065] Accordingly, considering the common internal width of 2,350 mm for standard container sizes of 20-foot, 40-foot, and 45-foot containers, the crossbar (120) may be configured to have a length of 350 mm to 500 mm so that a total of three rows of unit frames can be installed in the container. When using a crossbar (120) having a length of 350 mm to 500 mm, when the unit frames are arranged in three rows in the container, a gap of 283 mm to 433 mm is formed between the frames.

[0066] The above gap between frames is suitable, according to the inventors' experience, to accommodate the maximum amount of crops (C) inside a standard container while ensuring smooth air circulation inside the container and at the same time providing a minimum passage for workers to harvest or manage crops (C) in individual gutters (140).

[0067] The above gutter (140) may be configured in the form of a tank with an open top so that it can function as a water channel through which nutrient solution (including water) is stored or flows, as shown in FIGS. 1, 5, and 6.

[0068] A grow bag (G) is accommodated inside the gutter (140), and the nutrient solution flowing through the gutter (140) can be supplied to the grow bag (G).

[0069] In one embodiment, the gutter (140) has a structure in which both ends are symmetrically open and can be manufactured in a set unit length.

[0070] Additionally, a trench (141) may be formed on the bottom surface of the inner space of the gutter (140) so that a grow bag (G) can be installed and nutrient solution can flow to the bottom surface of the grow bag (G).

[0071] Additionally, in one embodiment, an end cap (145) may be coupled to the open ends of the gutter (140).

[0072] The end cap (145) covers the open end of the gutter (140) and functions to confine the nutrient solution inside the gutter (140).

[0073] Such an end cap (145) may be configured as a type with a drain hole (146) and a type without a drain hole (146), as illustrated in FIG. 5. In one embodiment, the drain hole (146) may be configured in the form of a through hole at the bottom of the end cap (145).

[0074] An end cap (145) of the type having a drainage hole (146) is connected to one end of a gutter (140), and the drainage hole (146) is connected to a drainage pipe (150D) to be described later, thereby forming a passage through which the nutrient solution supplied to the gutter (140) is drained to the drainage pipe (150D).

[0075] Conversely, an end cap (145) of the type without a drain hole (146) is connected to the other end of the gutter (140) to prevent loss of nutrient solution supplied to the gutter (140).

[0076] In one embodiment, when the drainage pipe (150D) is located at the front of the frame, the end cap (145) having the drainage hole (146) can also be coupled to the end of the gutter (140) located at the front of the frame, and the end cap (145) without the drainage hole (146) can be coupled to the end of the gutter (140) located at the back of the frame.

[0077] In addition, in one embodiment, the gutter (140) may be freely extended in its entire length by being connected to other gutters (140) as illustrated in FIGS. 1, 2, and 4. Here, any connection structure that can prevent water leakage may be applied to the connection between the gutters (140).

[0078] Such a gutter (140) can be mounted on the top of a plurality of crossbars (120). At this time, the length of the vertical bar (130) can be manufactured to be shorter than the length of the gutter (140) so that both ends of the gutter (140) can be mounted on each of the two crossbars (120).

[0079] For example, the gutter (140) can be manufactured in units of 1 m in length, but is not limited thereto, and may be manufactured in units of 3 m or 2 m in length depending on the convenience of use.

[0080] Additionally, in one embodiment, it is preferable that the gutter (140) be installed so that a gradient is formed toward the end cap (145) having the drainage hole (146) to prevent the nutrient solution from stagnating for a long period of time.

[0081]

[0082] The above supply pipe (150S) is a member that constitutes a path for supplying nutrient solution to crops (C), and can be connected to a pillar (110) of the frame.

[0083] In one embodiment, the supply pipe (150S) may be composed of a combination of a straight pipe (151), a T-branch coupler (152), a bend coupler (153), a valve pipe (154), and a nozzle (157).

[0084] The straight pipe (151) is a straight pipe and can be manufactured in a pre-designed unit length.

[0085] The T-branch coupler (152) is a T-shaped pipe connection component that can connect three pipes to each other so that they are in fluid communication with each other.

[0086] A bend coupler (153) is a pipe connecting component that connects two pipes at an angle rather than in a straight line.

[0087] The valve pipe (154) is a member equipped with a valve in a pipe shape that can be connected to a T-branch coupler (152) and a bend coupler (153). The valve can control the flow rate of the nutrient solution flowing in the valve pipe (154) by adjusting the opening rate. In one embodiment, the valve pipe (154) may be configured such that a valve unit (155) is detachably coupled to a flange (156).

[0088] The nozzle (157) is configured to be assembled to the end of the straight pipe (151) and the valve pipe (154).

[0089] In one embodiment shown in FIGS. 1 to 4, it can be seen that the supply pipe (150S) is arranged on the front of the frame and is combined with three straight pipes (151), three valve pipes (154), three nozzles (157), two T-branch couplers (152), and one bend coupler (153).

[0090] In this structure, the nutrient solution is supplied through the top of the straight pipe (151) placed at the top, so that the nutrient solution can be supplied to the cultivation pots of each layer using potential energy without using a separate pump.

[0091] Meanwhile, in one embodiment of the present invention, an LD pipe (158) may be connected to the nozzle (157), and a dripper (159) may be connected to the LD pipe (158). Through this structure, the nutrient solution discharged from the valve may be filled in the LD pipe (158), and a certain amount of the nutrient solution filled in the LD pipe (158) may be supplied to the gutter (140) or the crop (C) by the dripper (159).

[0092] However, it is not limited to the above-described configuration, and depending on the crop (C), a sprinkler device may be connected to the valve without using the LD pipe (158) and the dripper (159).

[0093] For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, gutters (140) may be arranged in two rows in one unit frame. In addition, an LD pipe (158) may be connected between the first row gutter (140) and the second row gutter (140) with a length corresponding to the length of the gutter (140).

[0094] In this structure, drippers (159) can be installed in the LD pipe (158) according to the number of crops (C) accommodated in each of the two-row arranged gutters (140).

[0095] At this time, the valve pipe (154) may be installed to extend horizontally from a straight pipe (151) vertically arranged on a pillar (110) via a T-branch coupler (152), and configured to have a nozzle (157) installed toward the space between the first row gutter (140) and the second row gutter (140) via a bend coupler (153) at the end.

[0096] In addition, the arrangement of these two-row gutters (140) and the position of the LD pipes (158) can be provided in multiple layers in the height direction in one unit frame.

[0097] This structure can accommodate a large number of crops (C) in one unit frame, and the structure for supplying nutrient solution including the supply pipe (150S) and the LD pipe (158) can effectively and evenly supply nutrient solution to a large number of crops (C) while taking up minimal space, so it is a very efficient structure in terms of space utilization pursued by vertical farms.

[0098] The above drainage pipe (150D) forms a path through which the nutrient solution discharged through the drainage hole (146) of the end cap (145) with the drainage hole (146) from the gutter (140) is discharged to a separately provided drain tank (not shown) and / or a nutrient solution reuse circulation system (not shown).

[0099] This drainage pipe (150D) can be composed of a combination of a straight pipe (151), a T-branch coupler (152), and a bent coupler (153).

[0100] In an example illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the drainage pipe (150D) may start from the bottom of the drainage hole (146) and extend toward the bottom of the frame without a section in which the height increases so that the nutrient solution discharged from the gutter (140) can flow smoothly and be discharged without a separate pump device that applies a forced flow force.

[0101] Additionally, in one embodiment, the straight pipe (151), the T-branch coupler (152), and the bent coupler (153) constituting the drainage pipe (150D) may be configured to have substantially the same diameter so as to be compatible with the straight pipe (151), the T-branch coupler (152), and the bent coupler (153) constituting the supply pipe (150S).

[0102] Meanwhile, in one embodiment, the drainage pipe (150D) may be provided on the side of the frame where the supply pipe (150S) is arranged, as illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4. When the drainage pipe (150D) and the supply pipe (150S) are positioned in the same direction in the frame, there is an advantage in that the length of the pipe can be minimized when configuring a nutrient solution circulation system that flows the nutrient solution drained to the drainage pipe (150D) back into the supply pipe (150S). In addition, even when a clogging phenomenon of the drainage pipe (150D) is discovered, the valve of the supply pipe (150S) can be easily operated, and even when a worker observes or manages crops (C) and structures from one of the front and back of the frame, the piping structure that visually and spatially obstructs is concentrated on only one side, so there is an advantage in terms of usability.

[0103] Meanwhile, in an example of a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the supply pipe (150S) may be fastened to one of two columns (110) arranged on the front or back of the frame, and the drainage pipe (150D) may be fastened to the remaining column (110). In addition, the supply pipe (150S) may have a structure in which the upper end extends to the upper end of the frame, and the drainage pipe (150D) may have a structure in which the lower end extends to the lower end of the frame. That is, when viewed from the perspective of looking at the front of the frame, the supply pipe (150S) and the drainage pipe (150D) may be installed in a 180-degree rotationally symmetrical structure with respect to the front center of the frame, except for the connection portion between the valve pipe (154) and the drainage hole (146).

[0104] The symmetrical structure of the supply pipe (150S) and the discharge pipe (150D) has no fixed position at the top and bottom of the unit frame, so it has the freedom of design and installation that the frame can be flipped up and down as needed.

[0105] The above light source unit (180) is a device that can irradiate light to crops (C) accommodated in the gutter (140), and like the frame, supply pipe (150S) and drain pipe (150D) described above, it can be provided in a modular form so that the installation location, number and length can be freely changed.

[0106] In one embodiment of the present invention illustrated in FIGS. 1 to 4, the light source unit (180) is configured to irradiate light to the crop (C) from above the crop (C). Specifically, the light source unit (180) may be provided to be fastened to a horizontal bar (120) coupled to the upper end of the frame so as to irradiate light to the crop (C) arranged on the uppermost layer, and may be provided to be fastened to a horizontal bar (120) supporting a gutter (140) arranged directly above the layer to be irradiated with light so as to irradiate light to the crop (C) of the layer arranged below the uppermost layer.

[0107] For example, the light source unit (180) may use an LED as a light source, but is not limited thereto and various types of light sources may be used.

[0108] These light source units (180) can be manufactured with a preset unit length, and one can be used alone, or multiple units can be connected in the length direction to be used in an extended form.

[0109] In addition, the light source unit (180) manufactured in unit length can be manufactured in a length equal to the length of the vertical bar (130) plus the thickness of the column (110) so that at least both ends can be fastened to the horizontal bar (120) when one is used alone.

[0110] This light source unit (180) has a structure in which the body itself is equipped with a cooling function capable of air-cooling or water-cooling, and has a configuration in which, even when multiple light source units (180) are connected, a coolant for cooling is shared between the multiple connected light source units (180) and power can also be shared.

[0111] The specific configuration of this light source unit (180) will be described in more detail later with reference to FIGS. 16 to 21.

[0112]

[0113] The vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to one embodiment of the present invention is manufactured in a unit form as described above, and has a structure in which a plurality of parts, some of which are compatible with each other, can be assembled at various locations, so that it can provide a very high degree of freedom in the design, modification, expansion, and reduction of the vertical farm.

[0114] As an example of a high degree of freedom, one embodiment illustrated in FIG. 8 shows a hydroponic cultivation device (100) having a total length of 4 m, consisting of three layers and four 1 m long gutters (140) connected thereto. It can be seen that this 4 m long hydroponic cultivation device (100) uses 10 columns (110), 32 vertical bars (130), and 36 horizontal bars (120).

[0115] In addition, another embodiment illustrated in FIG. 9 illustrates a hydroponic cultivation device (100) having a total length of 3 m, which is composed of three layers and has four 1 m long gutters (140) connected thereto. However, here, a structure is illustrated in which only one row of gutters (140) are arranged in the center in the longitudinal direction, rather than two rows. As illustrated in FIG. 9, a structure in which only one row of central gutters (140) is arranged may be advantageous in securing space necessary for harvesting and managing crops (C).

[0116] Here, it is obvious that in a row where a gutter (140) is placed on the central side, it is possible to use not only three 1-m-long gutters (140) but also one 3-m-long gutter (140).

[0117]

[0118] Next, with reference to FIGS. 10 to 15, a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0119] Here, FIG. 10 is a front perspective view of a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 11 is a back perspective view, FIG. 12 is a plan view, FIG. 13 is a front view, FIG. 14 is a side view, and FIG. 15 is an exploded perspective view of a unit frame.

[0120] A vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention is a structure in which a plurality of parts manufactured in a unit form are assembled, similar to the vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention described above with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, and has the same degree of freedom in design, deformation, expansion, and reduction as the vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0121] Meanwhile, as illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 15, a vertical type (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention has a difference in the fastening member (200) between the column (110-1), the horizontal bar (120-1), and the vertical bar (130-1) compared to the vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100) according to an embodiment of the present invention described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 9, a difference in the structure in which a portion of the supply pipe (150S) and the drainage pipe (150D) are arranged on the inside of the column (110-1), and a difference in the structure in which a side light source can be installed.

[0122] First, a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a frame including a pillar (110), a leg (115), a horizontal bar (120-1), a vertical bar (130-1), a first connecting block (161), and a second connecting block (162), as illustrated in FIG. 15.

[0123] The above column (110-1) may be composed of a straight square tube. Such column (110-1) may be manufactured in unit length.

[0124] These columns (110-1) are configured in the shape of a square tube so that a straight pipe (151), a T-branch coupler (152), and a bent coupler (153) of a supply pipe (150S) and a discharge pipe (150D) can be accommodated in the inner space.

[0125] In addition, in order to implement a passage through which a straight pipe (151) accommodated inside the column (110-1) is connected to a pipe arranged outside the column (110-1), a connecting slot (112) through which a T-branch coupler (152) and a bend coupler (153) are installed may be formed in the column (110-1).

[0126] The above connecting slot (112) can be formed symmetrically on both opposing sides of the column (110-1) to eliminate the distinction between the front and back of the column (110-1) for convenience of installation and deformation.

[0127] In addition, a connection slot (112) may be formed on the upper and lower sides of the column (110-1) so that a drainage pipe (150D) is connected to the upper side and a supply pipe (150S) is connected to the lower side based on one unit column (110-1).

[0128] These connecting slots (112) can be formed in a long hole shape so that the T-branch coupler (152) and the bending coupler (153) can be easily inserted into the inside of the pillar (110-1).

[0129] In addition, a plurality of through holes (113) may be formed at equal intervals along the longitudinal direction of the column (110-1) on the side of the column (110-1). The through holes (113) provide a structure that allows for easy attachment of a plurality of light source units (180) to the side of the frame when necessary, such as when irradiating light from the side of a crop (C). These plurality of through holes (113) may be formed symmetrically on both sides to eliminate the directionality of the column (110-1).

[0130] The above leg (115) may be formed as a straight angle pipe, and may be connected to the lower end of the column (110-1) via a first connecting block (161) or a second connecting block (162) to be described later, so as to support the leg (115) at a considerable height from the floor surface. This leg (115) may be manufactured to have a length that is basically shorter than the column (110-1), and may have a cross-section that is identical to the cross-section of the column (110-1).

[0131] Additionally, a height adjustment foot (111) can be attached to one end of the leg (115).

[0132] Additionally, in one embodiment, a connecting slot (112) through which a pipe and coupler (152, 153) can pass may be formed on both sides of the leg (115), similar to the pillar (110-1).

[0133] The above crossbar (120-1) is configured in the form of a square tube having the same cross-section as that of the column (110-1), and can be manufactured in unit length. This crossbar (120-1) connects two columns (110-1), and can be fastened to the crossbar (120-1) via a first connecting block (161) or a second connecting block (162).

[0134] In addition, in one embodiment, a fastening slot (122) to which a gutter (140) is fastened may be formed on the upper surface of the crossbar (120-1), and a side slot (123) may be formed on at least one of the front and back surfaces through which a power line and a refrigerant line connected to the light source unit (180) may pass.

[0135] In addition, a plurality of through holes (113) may be formed at equal intervals along the length direction of the crossbar (120-1) on the bottom surface of the crossbar (120-1) for fastening the light source unit (180). In addition, in another embodiment, the through holes (113) on the bottom surface of the crossbar (120-1) may be configured in the form of a slit rail (not shown) extending in the length direction of the crossbar (120-1) so that the light source unit (180) can slide in the length direction, rather than in a pattern of multiple holes.

[0136] The vertical bar (130-1) may be configured as a square tube having the same cross-section as that of the column (110-1), but is not limited thereto, and may be configured as a bar or angle instead of a square tube. However, if necessary, it may be preferable for the vertical bar (130-1) to be configured as a square tube having the same cross-section as that of the column (110-1) and the horizontal bar (120-1) so that the vertical bar (130-1) can be compatible with the column (110-1) and the horizontal bar (120-1).

[0137] These vertical bars (130-1) can be connected to the pillar (110-1) and / or the horizontal bar (120-1) via the first connecting block (161) or the second connecting block (162).

[0138] The above first connecting block (161) and the above second connecting block (162) are connecting intermediate parts that connect the pillar (110-1), the horizontal bar (120-1), and the vertical bar (130-1) at right angles to each other.

[0139] In one embodiment, the first connecting block (161) and the second connecting block (162) may be provided with a plurality of insertion portions (165) that are inserted into the open ends of the column (110-1), the horizontal bar (120-1), and the vertical bar (130-1) configured in the shape of a square tube, and among the plurality of insertion portions (165), the insertion portions (165) that are adjacent to each other may be configured to form a right angle to each other.

[0140] For example, the first connecting block (161) may be formed to have four insertions (165) and the second connecting block (162) may be formed to have five insertions (165). Here, the first connecting block (161) may be connected to a column (110-1) arranged at the end of the device among a plurality of columns (110-1) included in the hydroponic device (100-1), and the second connecting block (162) may be used to extend the vertical bar (130-1), and thus may be connected to a column (110-1) arranged in the middle section of the device.

[0141] In addition, in one embodiment, the first connecting block (161) and the second connecting block (162) may be configured in the form of a plurality of insertions (165) that are internally connected to each other so that the straight pipe (151) of the supply pipe (150S) and the drain pipe (150D) can pass through them. Specifically, the first connecting block (161) may be implemented with a structure in which a vertically extending vertically angled pipe is formed on each of the four faces of a box-shaped hexahedron body, and the second connecting block (162) may be implemented with a structure in which a vertically extending vertically angled pipe is formed on each of the five faces of a box-shaped hexahedron body. Here, the cubic bodies of the first connecting block (161) and the second connecting block (162) are configured such that the length of one side is the same as the length of one side of the column (110-1), the vertical bar (130-1), and the horizontal bar (120-1), and the plurality of angles provided in the cubic bodies are configured in a form that can be inserted into the interior of the column (110-1), the vertical bar (130-1), and the horizontal bar (120-1), so that when the frame is assembled, a step (182) is not formed at the connection portion of the column (110-1), the vertical bar (130-1), and the horizontal bar (120-1).

[0142] Meanwhile, in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention, a portion of a supply pipe (150S) and a drainage pipe (150D) can be stored in the inner space of a column (110-1), a vertical bar (130-1), or a horizontal bar (120-1).

[0143] In one embodiment, a straight pipe (151) included in a supply pipe (150S) and a discharge pipe (150D) as illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 14 may be stored in a column (110-1) or a vertical bar (130-1).

[0144] In this way, when the supply pipe (150S) and the discharge pipe (150D) are stored in the inner space of the member forming the frame, the area of ​​the pipe exposed to the outside is reduced, which has the advantage of reducing the risk of pipe damage.

[0145] In addition, before assembling the frame, the column (110-1) may be prepared or manufactured in advance in a form in which a straight pipe (151) is stored in advance on the inside. At this time, a bend coupler (153) or a T-branch coupler (152) may be coupled to the straight pipe (151) stored in the column (110-1), and one pipe connection end of the bend coupler (153) and the T-branch coupler (152) may be configured to be exposed to the outside through the connection slot (112). If the column (110-1) is provided in this manner with the straight pipe (151) stored in it, it has the advantage of being able to assemble the column (110-1) and the pipe at once.

[0146] Meanwhile, a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention has a structure in which a side light source positioned on the side of the crop (C) can be installed in addition to a light source unit (180) installed on the upper side of the crop (C).

[0147] In one embodiment, a structure in which a side light source can be installed is a structure in which a light source unit (180) can be installed along the longitudinal direction of a pillar (110-1).

[0148] Specifically, a structure in which a side light source can be installed can be implemented including a wire (170) and a clasp member (172).

[0149] The clasp member (172) can be fastened to a pillar (110-1), a horizontal bar (120-1), or a vertical bar (130-1). In addition, a wire (170) can be connected to a light source unit (180) while being supported by the clasp member (172). Through this structure, the light source unit (180) can be suspended from the side of the frame by the wire (170).

[0150] In one embodiment, a structure in which a side light source can be installed can be symmetrically provided on both sides of the frame so as to stably support the light source unit (180) while also being able to adjust the inclination of the light source unit (180).

[0151] In an example illustrated in FIGS. 10 to 14, two clasp members (172) and one wire (170) constitute a structure in which one side light source can be installed.

[0152] In this way, the structure in which the light source unit (180) is installed by tying it to a wire (170) has the advantage of being able to freely change the light irradiation direction of the light source unit (180) installed on the side of the frame. That is, since the structure in which the light source unit (180) is tied to and suspended from a wire (170) does not restrict the installation direction of the light source unit (180), the user can rotate and place the light source unit (180) as needed.

[0153] In addition, it has the advantage that a plurality of light source units (180) can be suspended while sharing a clasp member (172) using a flexible wire (170) like this. That is, a plurality of light source units (180) can be suspended by connecting a plurality of wires (170) to the clasp member (172).

[0154] Meanwhile, in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100-1) according to another embodiment of the present invention, as illustrated in FIG. 11, a light source unit (180) is attached to a horizontal bar (120-1), and power lines and refrigerant lines can be connected to a plurality of light source units (180) through side slots (123) formed on the side of the horizontal bar (120-1). At this time, the horizontal bar (120-1) to which the power lines or refrigerant lines are connected can be provided in a form in which the power lines and / or refrigerant lines are stored in advance in an inner space. Then, a user can connect a plurality of power line cords (125) and refrigerant lines stored in the horizontal bar (120-1) and drawn out through the side slots (123) to the light source unit (180).

[0155]

[0156] Next, with reference to FIGS. 16 to 21, the light source unit (180) included in the vertical hydroponic cultivation device (100, 100-1) according to embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail.

[0157] Here, Fig. 16 is a perspective view showing a plurality of light source units (180) connected, Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a unit of the light source unit (180), Fig. 18 is a front view of the light source unit (180), Fig. 19 is an exploded perspective view of a connection portion of the light source unit (180), Fig. 20 is a perspective view of a connection portion of the light source unit (180), and Fig. 21 is a cross-sectional view of the light source unit (180).

[0158] First, as shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the light source unit (180) is manufactured as a unit as shown in FIG. 17, and a plurality of unit units can be connected to each other as shown in FIG. 16.

[0159] Here, a plurality of light source units (180) connected to each other can share power and refrigerant. At this time, the light source units (180) connected to each other have the advantage of being assembled so that they can share power and refrigerant simply by connecting the light source units (180) to each other, without requiring separate cable connection work for connecting power and pipe connection work for sharing refrigerant.

[0160] This light source unit (180) may include a main body (181), a connection cover (190), a fastener (200), and a fixing clip (210).

[0161] The above main body (181) has an overall straight tubular shape, and as shown in Fig. 21, the internal space can be divided into a control unit (181A), a cooling unit (181B), and a light source unit (181C) along the height direction.

[0162] The above control unit (181A) is located at the uppermost part of the main body (181) and is a space that houses a control module (183) that can control the power and dimming of the lighting module (185) installed in the light source unit (181C).

[0163] The above light source unit (181C) may include a lighting module (185) and a lens (186) that generate light that is illuminated on the crop (C). Here, the lighting module (185) may be configured as an LED module including a plurality of LED elements (188) arranged along the longitudinal direction of the main body (181). In addition, the lens (186) is a member that transmits and emits the light generated by the lighting module (185), and may constitute the lower surface of the main body (181).

[0164] This lens (186) may refer to the arch-shaped lens (186) disclosed in Patent Registration No. 10-2541081 applied for by the present applicant.

[0165] The above cooling unit (181B) is located between the light source unit (181C) and the control unit (181A) and performs the function of forcibly cooling the heat generated from the lighting module (185).

[0166] In one embodiment, the cooling unit (181B) may include a refrigerant pipe (184) accommodated inside the main body (181), and the refrigerant pipe (184) may be extended to a length corresponding to the longitudinal direction of the main body (181).

[0167] These refrigerant pipes (184) are made of a material with high thermal conductivity, and air or water can flow inside them to implement air-cooling or water-cooling. Accordingly, the lighting module (185) can be cooled through heat exchange with the refrigerant pipes (184).

[0168] In one embodiment, the PCB (187) of the lighting module (185) may be configured to be in direct contact with the bottom of the refrigerant pipe (184) without a gap.

[0169] In this configuration, the control unit (181A) is placed at one end of the main body (181), and the electrical connection between the control unit (181A) and the lighting module (185) can be implemented in a manner that bypasses one end of the refrigerant pipe (184).

[0170] The above connection cover (190) is configured to cover both open ends of the main body (181).

[0171] This connection cover (190) has a power port (191) and a cooling port (192).

[0172] The power port (191) is a path for electrically energizing two light source units (180) that are connected to each other. The power port (191) may be implemented as a DC port or an AC port. Power supplied to the power port (191) may be supplied to the control module (183).

[0173] Additionally, the cooling port (192) is a path that fluidly connects two light source units (180) that are connected to each other. The cooling port (192) may be configured as a conduit through which air and water can pass.

[0174] In one embodiment, the connection cover (190) may be configured in two types depending on the male and female structures of the power port (191) and the cooling port (192). Accordingly, one light source unit (180) may be connected to one connection cover (190) of a type with opposite male and female structures at each end of the main body (181).

[0175] In addition, a plurality of light source units (180) are connected and the light source unit (180) placed last can have its cooling port (192) closed by a separate lid (not shown).

[0176] The above fastener (200) is a component that fastens the light source unit (180) to the crossbar (120-1) of the frame, and is configured so that the lower end can be fastened to the connection cover (190) and the upper end can be fastened to the crossbar (120-1).

[0177] In one embodiment, the upper end of the fastener (200) may have a T-shaped structure that is slidably inserted into a slit rail (not shown) formed in the crossbar (120-1), or may have an elastic hook structure that is inserted into a through hole (113) formed in the crossbar (120-1).

[0178] The above fixed clip (210) performs the function of reinforcing the fastening force of the connecting portion of the light source units (180) that are connected to each other.

[0179] In one embodiment, the fixed clip (210) may have a structure that holds two connecting covers (190) connected to each other in a male-female structure so that they do not become separated from each other, as shown in FIGS. 19 and 20.

[0180] Specifically, the connecting cover (190) fastened to the main body (181) can form a step (193) protruding from the surface of the main body (181), and the fixing clip (210) can include a pair of gripping parts (211) arranged at the step (193) portion and a connecting bar (212) connecting the pair of gripping parts (211).

[0181] A pair of grip portions (211) can be spaced apart by a distance equal to the distance between the ends of two connecting covers (190) that are in close contact with each other, and a connecting bar (212) can be extended to connect between the pair of grip portions (211) to maintain the distance.

[0182] In one embodiment, a pair of connecting bars (212) may be provided symmetrically on both sides of the grip portion (211).

[0183] In addition, in one embodiment, in order to prevent the fixed clip (210) from being detached from the main body (181), a step (182) may be formed on the main body (181), and the grip portion (211) may be provided with a hook portion (213) that is elastically and forcibly fitted into the step (182).

[0184] Additionally, in one embodiment, it is preferable that the fixed clip (210) be configured to be fastened to the control unit (181A) side, which is the upper part of the main body (181), so as not to block the light emitted from the lens (186) of the light source unit (180).

[0185] Through this structure, since the connection portion of the two light source units (180) is secured with strength, the connection portion of the light source units (180) has the advantage that the two light source units (180) can be stably supported on the crossbar (120-1) even if only one fastener (200) is used.

[0186]

[0187] Next, another embodiment of the light source unit (180-1) will be described with reference to FIGS. 22 to 24.

[0188] Here, FIG. 22 is a cross-sectional view of a light source unit (180-1) according to another embodiment, FIG. 23 is a perspective view, (a) of FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a female connection cover (190-1) fastened to a light source unit (180-1) according to another embodiment, (b) of FIG. 24 is a perspective view of a male connection cover (190-2), (c) of FIG. 24 is a side view of a female connection cover (190-1), and (d) of FIG. 24 is a side view of a male connection cover (190-2).

[0189] First, as illustrated in FIG. 22, the light source unit (180-1) according to another embodiment is different from the light source unit (180) illustrated in FIG. 21 in the shape of the lens (186-1) and the structure of the cooling unit (181B-1).

[0190] According to another embodiment, a light source unit (180-1) may be configured such that, unlike the light source unit (180) illustrated in FIG. 21, the lens (186-1) has a semicircular cross-section. This semicircular cross-section lens (186-1) can achieve the effect of evenly dispersing the light of the LED element (188) across the entire irradiation range.

[0191] In addition, the cooling unit (181B-1) of the light source unit (180) according to another embodiment may be provided with an insulating channel (184-2) that forms an air layer on both sides of the refrigerant pipe (184-1) to block heat exchange between the refrigerant of the refrigerant pipe (184-1) and the external environment of the main body (181-1).

[0192] Meanwhile, referring to FIGS. 24 to 27, the light source unit (180-1) according to another embodiment may include a female connection cover (190-1) and a male connection cover (190-2) that are connected to each other in a male-female structure, similar to the light source unit (180) according to the embodiment described above with reference to FIGS. 17 to 20.

[0193] Figures 24 and 26 show perspective and side views of a female connection cover (190-1), and Figures 25 and 27 show perspective and side views of a male connection cover (190-2).

[0194] The female connection cover (190-1) may be provided with a female power port (191-1) and a female cooling port (192-1), and the male connection cover (190-2) may be provided with a male power port (191-2) and a male cooling port (192-2). Here, when the connection covers (190-1, 190-2) are connected in a male-female structure, the male power port (191-2) is inserted into the female power port (191-1), and the male cooling port (192-2) is connected to the female cooling port (192-1).

[0195] In addition, the light source unit (180-1) according to another embodiment may be implemented as a structure for fixing the female connection cover (190-1) and the male connection cover (190-2) by using a hook (189) integrally provided on the connection cover (190-1) without using a fixing clip (210) unlike the light source unit (180) of the embodiment illustrated in FIGS. 19 and 20, in which the female connection cover (190-1) and the male connection cover (190-2) are hook-connected to each other.

[0196]

[0197] Next, with reference to FIGS. 28 to 31, a light source unit (180-2) of another embodiment will be described.

[0198] As shown in FIGS. 28 to 31, the light source unit (180-2) of another embodiment can be mounted on the frame using a magnet (220) without using a fastener (200) to mount the light source unit (180) on the frame, unlike the light source unit (180) of the embodiment.

[0199] In one embodiment, the magnet (220) can be coupled to the top of the connection cover (190-3) via a piece nail (S).

[0200] A light source unit (180-2) of this type using a magnet (220) has the advantages of being convenient to install, easy to move, increasing the degree of freedom in installation location, and reducing manufacturing costs due to a simplified structure.

[0201]

[0202] Although the present invention has been illustrated and described with respect to specific embodiments, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and changes may be made therein without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention as set forth in the claims below.

[0203] 100, 100-1: Hydroponic cultivation device

[0204] 110, 110-1: Column 111: Height-adjustable feet

[0205] 112: Connection slot 113: Through hole

[0206] 115: Leg 120, 120-1: Crossbar

[0207] 121: Fastening flange 122: Fastening slot

[0208] 123: Side slot 130, 130-1: Vertical bar

[0209] 131: Fastening flange 140: Gutter

[0210] 141: Tranche 145: Endcap

[0211] 146: Retreat Hole G: Growback

[0212] C: Crop 150S: Supply Pipe

[0213] 150D: Recession pipe 151: Straight pipe

[0214] 152: T-branch coupler 153: Bending coupler

[0215] 154: Valve pipe 155: Valve unit

[0216] 156: Flange 157: Nozzle

[0217] 158: LD pipe 159: Dripper

[0218] 161: First connecting block 162: Second connecting block

[0219] 165: Insert 170: Wire

[0220] 172: Latch member 180: Light source unit

[0221] 181: Main body 182: Single chin

[0222] 181A: Control unit 183: Control module

[0223] 181B: Cooling section 184: Refrigerant pipe

[0224] 181C: Light source 185: Lighting module

[0225] 186: Lens 187: PCB

[0226] 188: LED element 190: Connection cover

[0227] 191: Power port 192: Cooling port

[0228] 193: Step 200: Fastener

[0229] 210: Fixed clip 211: Grab part

[0230] 212: Connecting bar 213: Hook part

Claims

1. A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device in which crop cultivation ports are arranged in multiple layers in a structure made of frames and which provides light energy to the crops, A main body having a straight tube shape with open ends, the internal space being divided into a control section, a cooling section, and a light source section along the height direction, and emitting light to be irradiated onto crops; A connection cover configured to cover the open ends of the main body and having a power port and a cooling port, and configured in two types according to the male and female structures of the power port and the cooling port; and A fastener having a lower end fastened to the above-mentioned connecting cover and an upper end fastened to the above-mentioned frame; A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device including:

2. In paragraph 1, The above light source unit includes a lighting module that generates light that is illuminated on the crop and a lens that emits the light generated from the lighting module. The above control unit is arranged at one end of the length direction of the main body and includes a control module that controls power and dimming of the lighting module. A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device, characterized in that the cooling unit is located between the light source unit and the control unit and includes a refrigerant pipe for heat exchange with the light module to forcibly cool the heat generated from the light module by water cooling or air cooling.

3. In paragraph 2, A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device, characterized in that when the female type connection cover and the male type connection cover are connected to each other and a plurality of main bodies are connected to each other, the lighting modules provided in the plurality of main bodies connected to each other are electrically connected to each other through the power port, and the refrigerant pipes provided in the plurality of main bodies connected to each other are in fluid communication so that the refrigerant flows through each other through the cooling port.

4. In paragraph 3, A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device, characterized in that when a plurality of the above power ports are connected to each other, a control signal for controlling power and dimming of the control module is shared.

5. In paragraph 3, Further comprising a magnet coupled to the above connecting cover, A light source unit included in a vertical hydroponic cultivation device characterized in that it is attracted to the frame through the magnetic force of the magnet.

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