Smartfarm system

Abstract

The present invention comprises: multiple plant cultivation rack parts which are arranged in a chamber, to which a cultivation crop tray is fastened, and which are formed to be slidable along a guide rail; LED modules which are arranged in front of and behind the plant cultivation rack parts to emit light to a cultivation crop and formed to be slidable along the guide rail while having the same movement path as the plant cultivation rack parts; and a control part which controls ON / OFF of the LED modules and selectively controls the slide movements of the plant cultivation rack parts and the LED modules according to a set operation condition.

Description

Smart Farm System

[0001] The present invention relates to a smart farm system, and more particularly, to a smart farm system having a movable LED and plant cultivation rack.

[0002]

[0003] The content described below merely provides background information related to the present embodiment and does not constitute prior art.

[0004] Humanity currently lives in an era of unprecedented population expansion.

[0005] As the population grows, more environmental destruction and pollution occur, and various attempts are being made due to increasing anxiety about future food security.

[0006] Natural disasters and climate change caused by global warming are making human life unstable in all indicators, including the production, quality, and price of grains, vegetables, and livestock products that humans can only obtain from nature. Demographic changes, such as the decline in the influx of new farmers and the aging rural population, as well as the shift to urban areas, are also shaking the very foundations of food production.

[0007] To address the aforementioned issues, governments are pursuing genetic engineering, seed protection, scientific farming, and automation, while striving to address the uncertainties of the future. Each government is actively developing smart farms and smart farm technologies by integrating ICT convergence technologies to enhance operational efficiency and fostering professional agricultural management through education.

[0008] In general, smart farms have been attracting attention as a positive change in that they can be produced by using LEDs or solar energy, supplying water and nutrients, and controlling wind, temperature, humidity, and carbon dioxide concentration in glass greenhouses, containers, or buildings, and that they can enable pesticide-free cultivation and the production of high-value-added plants.

[0009] However, behind this rapid growth are challenges such as high labor and energy costs, facility maintenance, market development, and logistics costs. While numerous smart farms once sprang up and grew rapidly, primarily in developed countries like Japan and the United States, due to these challenges, less than half remain today.

[0010] In particular, conventional smart farms turn LEDs on / off under the same conditions for each cultivation room, and require a large amount of infrastructure investment and increased electric energy usage to maintain the same air conditioning capacity, sunlight using LEDs, cooling systems based on the same, nutrient supply and drainage systems, CO2 control systems, dehumidification control, and humidification control systems for each room, which creates a higher cost structure than traditional facility farming (vinyl houses, glass greenhouses, etc.).

[0011] And, these high costs of facility investment and maintenance were the biggest obstacles to carrying out smart farm business.

[0012] Therefore, high-efficiency, low-cost equipment and control systems, efficient crop production management, and energy-saving plant cultivation facilities are required.

[0013] The purpose of the present invention is to provide a smart farm system that enables environmental control according to light and dark periods in a single chamber, as well as space utilization and efficient crop growth, by providing a plant cultivation rack to which a plurality of crop trays are connected, and an LED that irradiates light for photosynthesis to the plant cultivation rack, and by turning the LED on / off according to the growth cycle of the crop, or by selectively allowing the plant cultivation rack or the LED to move closer or further away from each other.

[0014] In addition, the present invention aims to provide a smart farm system that sets the time and position of LED modules placed inside adjacent chambers, and to provide a smart farm system that can alternately place a light or dark signal by providing one LED module inside an adjacent chamber.

[0015] A smart farm system according to the present invention comprises: a plant cultivation rack unit arranged in a plurality inside a chamber and to which cultivation trays are fastened; a first chamber in which a plurality of the plant cultivation rack units are located; a second chamber in which the plurality of the plant cultivation rack units are located adjacent to the first chamber; an LED module located in one of the first chamber or the second chamber and adjacent to the plant cultivation rack units; and a control unit for moving the LED module to an adjacent chamber and adjusting the spacing between the plurality of plant cultivation rack units within one chamber.

[0016] The above control unit provides a smart farm system having a pair chamber structure in which the first chamber and the second chamber are connected in a pair structure so that the LED module is selectively positioned in one of the first chamber and the second chamber in response to a user request or a set value.

[0017] In addition, a smart farm system is provided, including a cover part positioned at least one in the first chamber and the second chamber, and selectively opened so that the LED modules can be moved to adjacent chambers.

[0018] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system in which the LED modules are configured to be alternately positioned in the first chamber and the second chamber in consideration of a user's set time or the type of crop being grown.

[0019] In addition, the LED module is connected to the transport device of the first chamber and the second chamber to provide a smart farm system configured to move the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0020] In addition, the transport device provides a smart farm system including a guide portion into which at least a part of the LED module is inserted and positioned along the first chamber and the second chamber; and a driving portion that applies a driving force to a frame of the LED module so that the LED module moves along the guide portion.

[0021] In addition, a smart farm system is provided in which the plant cultivation rack portion located in the first chamber is configured to form the same row as the plant cultivation rack portion located in the second chamber.

[0022] In addition, the LED module provides a smart farm system that moves while maintaining a state parallel to the plant cultivation racks of the same row located in the first chamber and the second chamber.

[0023] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system in which the LED modules are controlled to be alternately positioned in each chamber for a set period of time.

[0024] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system configured to compensate for the set time based on information from a camera that photographs the state of crops.

[0025] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system that controls the spacing between a plurality of plant cultivation racks within a chamber from which the LED module has been removed.

[0026] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system that controls the actual cultivation rack unit located at the outermost end among a plurality of plant cultivation rack units located in a chamber from which the LED module has been removed to have the maximum gap in advance.

[0027] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system that sequentially controls adjacent plant cultivation racks to have the maximum spacing after a set time has elapsed in which the plant cultivation racks located at the outermost portion have the maximum spacing.

[0028] In addition, as another embodiment of the present invention, a smart farm system is provided, characterized in that it includes a plant cultivation rack unit that is arranged in multiple numbers inside a chamber, to which cultivation crop trays are fastened, and is formed to be able to slide along a guide rail; an LED module that is arranged in front and behind the plant cultivation rack unit to irradiate light to cultivation crops, and is formed to be able to slide integrally with the plant cultivation rack unit; and a control unit that controls ON / OFF of the LED module and selectively controls the sliding movement of the plant cultivation rack unit and the LED module according to set operating conditions.

[0029] In addition, the plant cultivation rack section provides a smart farm system formed in a multi-stage structure in which the cultivation crop trays are connected to the front and rear.

[0030] In addition, the plant cultivation rack section provides a smart farm system in which the angle is adjustable toward the facing LED module.

[0031] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system in which the plant cultivation rack unit and the LED module slide within one chamber so that the gap between the plant cultivation rack unit and the LED module is adjusted according to the operating conditions corresponding to the growth status information of the cultivated crop.

[0032] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system in which the gap between the plant cultivation rack and the LED module is adjusted according to the operating conditions corresponding to the door opening / closing information of the chamber.

[0033] In addition, the control unit provides a smart farm system that controls the sliding movement of the plant cultivation rack and the LED module so that the gap between the plant cultivation rack and the LED module is spaced apart by a set maximum gap when the door of the chamber is determined to be open.

[0034] The present invention comprises a plant cultivation rack to which a plurality of cultivation crop trays are connected, and an LED for irradiating light for photosynthesis to the plant cultivation rack, and by turning the LED on / off according to the growth cycle of the cultivation crops or selectively allowing the plant cultivation rack or the LED to move closer or further away from each other, it is possible to control the environment according to the dark and light periods in one chamber, and has the effect of enabling space utilization and efficient cultivation crop growth.

[0035] In addition, the present invention has the effect of providing convenience to users by monitoring growth status information of cultivated crops, transmitting the information to a user terminal, and controlling the movement of a plant cultivation rack or LED using the user terminal.

[0036] The present invention provides one LED module positioned in two adjacent chambers, thereby reducing the installation cost of a smart farm system.

[0037] In addition, the present invention has the effect of providing a smart farm system in which two adjacent different chambers are alternately configured with a light source and a dark source, thereby providing a chamber capable of efficient heat management.

[0038] FIG. 1 is a drawing showing the configuration of a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0039] FIG. 2 is a drawing of a first embodiment for showing the arrangement of a plant cultivation rack and LED modules for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0040] FIG. 3 is a drawing of a second embodiment for showing the arrangement of a plant cultivation rack and LED modules for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0041] FIG. 4 is a drawing of a first embodiment for showing the structure of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0042] FIG. 5 is a drawing of a second embodiment for showing the structure of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0043] FIG. 6 is a drawing of a first embodiment for showing the slide movement state of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0044] FIG. 7 is a drawing of a second embodiment for showing the slide movement state of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0045] FIG. 8 illustrates a smart farm system in which a first chamber and a second chamber form a pair according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0046] FIG. 9 illustrates the configuration of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0047] FIG. 10 illustrates a plant cultivation rack configured in the same row in the first chamber and the second chamber according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0048] FIG. 11 illustrates a plant cultivation rack in which a plurality of chambers are adjacent to each other and arranged in the same row according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0049] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate the open structure of a cover portion positioned between the first chamber and the second chamber according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0050] FIG. 14 illustrates a configuration diagram of a transport device connected to an LED module according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0051] Fig. 15 illustrates a fastening relationship between an LED module and a guide part according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0052] FIG. 16 illustrates a fastening relationship between a plant cultivation rack and a guide rail according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0053] Hereinafter, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the attached drawings.

[0054]

[0055] The advantages and features of the present invention and the method for achieving them will become clear with reference to the embodiments described in detail below together with the attached drawings.

[0056] However, the present invention is not limited to the embodiments disclosed below, but may be implemented in various different forms, and the present embodiments are provided only to make the disclosure of the present invention complete and to fully inform a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains of the scope of the invention, and the present invention is defined only by the scope of the claims.

[0057] In addition, when describing the present invention, if it is determined that related known technologies or the like may obscure the gist of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

[0058]

[0059] FIG. 1 is a drawing for showing the configuration of a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is a drawing of a first embodiment for showing the arrangement state of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 3 is a drawing of a second embodiment for showing the arrangement state of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0060] And, FIG. 4 is a drawing of a first embodiment for showing the structure of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 5 is a drawing of a second embodiment for showing the structure of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0061] In addition, FIG. 6 is a drawing of a first embodiment for showing the slide movement state of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 7 is a drawing of a second embodiment for showing the slide movement state of a plant cultivation rack and an LED module for a smart farm system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0062] In general, plants convert solar or LED (light) energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis when exposed to light (sun or LED), generating ATP and NADPH. At this time, plants use the generated chemical energy to create glucose to obtain energy and grow. This process can be generally defined as "photosynthesis."

[0063] For example, during the light period, light is irradiated to the crop tray (110) attached to the plant cultivation rack (100) through a plurality of LED modules (600) and a separate nutrient supply pipe (not shown) to supply nutrients. More preferably, during the light period, the air conditioning system operates while controlling the temperature so that the chamber (10) maintains an internal temperature of about 15°C to about 25°C so that the crops can rest.

[0064] And, in an environment without sunlight or LED (light) irradiation, plants stop photosynthesis, break down stored glucose through respiration, and produce secondary metabolites necessary for growth in this process, which can be defined as the "dark period."

[0065] For example, during memorization, unlike during the brightening period, light irradiation and nutrient supply through multiple LED modules (600) and separate nutrient supply pipes (not shown) are not performed, and more preferably, during memorization, the air conditioning system operates while controlling the temperature so that the chamber (10) maintains an internal temperature of about 6°C to 13°C.

[0066] In this way, in order to create a growth environment for the light or dark period, the cultivated plants can be moved between two different chambers (10) having light and dark growth environments, but the growth environment can also be selectively changed in one chamber (10) to correspond to the light and dark periods, thereby enabling efficient growth of the cultivated crops.

[0067] To this end, as illustrated in FIG. 1, the smart farm system according to the present embodiment includes a plant cultivation rack (100), an LED module (600), and a control unit (500).

[0068] The plant cultivation rack (100) has a predetermined length and is formed to be extended, and is arranged in multiple numbers inside the chamber (10) as shown in FIG. 2.

[0069] Here, the plant cultivation rack (100) may be arranged horizontally inside the chamber (10), but this is only for one embodiment and is not fixed, and may be arranged vertically as shown in Fig. 3, taking into consideration the location of the entrance or the layout of the chamber (10). However, in the case of a smart farm including pair chambers, the plant cultivation rack (100) and the LED module (600) may be opposed longitudinally along the direction toward the adjacent chamber so that the LED module (600) can be moved to the adjacent chamber.

[0070] The plant cultivation rack (100) is provided with a crop tray (110), and as illustrated in FIG. 4, may be formed to be capable of reciprocating sliding along a guide rail (20) including a guide wheel (210) coupled to a guide rail (20). Here, the guide rail (20) may be positioned along the longitudinal direction or the width direction of the chamber, and in the case of a smart farm including a pair chamber, it is positioned along the width direction perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of an adjacent chamber.

[0071] Therefore, when the LED module (600) is moved to a different chamber along the pair chamber, the plant cultivation rack (100) is moved in the width direction along the vertical direction in which the LED module (600) is moved in one chamber.

[0072] And, as shown in FIG. 4, the plant cultivation rack (100) has a multi-tiered structure in which a cultivation tray (110) including a plurality of cultivation crops is fastened to the front and rear of the upper plate (100a), and includes eight upper plates (100a), so that a plurality of cultivation trays (110) can be fastened to the upper plate (100a) in the vertical direction.

[0073] Such a plant cultivation rack (100) can have multiple crop trays (110) flatly fastened to the top plate (100a), but each LED of the LED module (600) can be selectively angle-adjusted so that photosynthesis can be effectively achieved through light irradiated from the LED module (600) when specified.

[0074] More preferably, the crop tray (110) may be positioned flat from the top plate (100a) as shown in FIG. 4 when memorizing, and may be positioned so that the angle from the top plate (100a) faces the LED module (600) as shown in FIG. 5 when the LED module (600) is turned OFF.

[0075] In summary, each LED constituting the crop tray (110) and LED module (600) can have its angle controlled.

[0076] As shown in Fig. 2, the LED modules (600) are arranged in the front and rear in the same direction as the arrangement direction of the plant cultivation rack (100) to irradiate light to the crops.

[0077] The LED module (600) is configured to move along the guide portion (310) as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, and includes a driving portion (320) coupled to the lower frame (610), so that it can selectively slide along the guide portion (310) to an adjacent chamber by penetrating the pair chamber. Furthermore, the guide portion (310) is configured in a rail shape so that a portion of the frame (610) can be inserted into the guide portion (310) and moved.

[0078] In other words, the LED module (600) may be arranged with a plurality of LEDs at equal intervals in the vertical direction at the front and rear of the movable frame (610) movably coupled to the upper guide part (310), and may be able to slide back and forth to be selectively moved to a selected chamber.

[0079] Furthermore, the plant cultivation rack (100) can selectively perform sliding movement in a direction perpendicular to the movement direction of the LED module (600) along the guide rail. Accordingly, when the LED module (600) is positioned within the chamber, the plant cultivation rack (100) can control the spacing between the LED modules (600). In addition, when the LED module (600) is moved to an adjacent chamber, the plant cultivation rack (100) can selectively perform widthwise movement to provide a working space for the user.

[0080] Meanwhile, the control unit (500) controls ON / OFF for the LED module (600), and selectively controls the width-wise movement of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and the length-wise slide movement between chambers of the LED module (600) according to the set operating conditions.

[0081] Here, although not shown in the drawing, the control unit (500) can be electrically connected to the motor (220) of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and the driving unit (320) of the LED module (600), and accordingly, the sliding movement of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and the LED module (600) can be selectively controlled.

[0082] More preferably, the electrical wires connected to the LED module (600) are positioned above the adjacent chambers so that the LED module (600) can maintain electrical connection when moving longitudinally between adjacent chambers.

[0083] The control unit (500) turns off the LED module (600) when memorizing the crops to be grown, and turns on the LED module (600) when specifying the crops to be grown.

[0084] More preferably, when the control unit (500) determines that the LED module (600) according to the dark state has slid to an adjacent chamber, as shown in FIG. 6, the control unit controls the width-direction sliding movement of the plurality of plant cultivation racks (100) so that the interval between each plant cultivation rack (10) is spaced apart by a set minimum interval (G1). For this purpose, each plant cultivation rack (100) may be equipped with a distance sensor (103), etc.

[0085] That is, since no separate light irradiation is performed during memorization, the LED module (600) is moved to an adjacent pair chamber, and since the role of the LED module (600) is not necessary at this time, the spacing between the plant cultivation racks (100) can be adjusted to have a minimum spacing. In addition, the chamber in which the memorization plant cultivation racks that perform the user's work are located can be moved in the width direction so that the plant cultivation racks (100) have a maximum distance.

[0086] Accordingly, when the control unit (500) receives a user's work request signal, it can control the LED module (600) to be moved to the recording chamber and the plant cultivation rack section of the recording chamber to have the maximum gap.

[0087] In addition, the control unit (500) controls the slide movement of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) to adjust the gap between the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and the LED module (600) so that light can be irradiated to a level required according to the operating conditions corresponding to the growth status information of the cultivated crop, i.e. the status and growth period of the cultivated crop.

[0088] For example, if it is determined as a result of monitoring one of the multiple plant cultivation racks (100) that the state of the cultivated crop is not photosynthetic, the control unit (500) can determine that the LED module (600) is not positioned in the light chamber and control the slide movement of the plant cultivation rack (100) so that the gap between the plant cultivation rack (100) and the LED module (600) becomes closer.

[0089] Conversely, for example, if it is determined as a result of monitoring one of the plurality of plant cultivation racks (100) that the corresponding crop has grown faster in its growth period, the control unit (500) can control the slide movement of the plant cultivation rack (100) so that the gap between the LED module (600) located in the light chamber and the plant cultivation rack (100) increases.

[0090] In addition, the control unit (500) can control the slide movement of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and the LED module (600) independently or integrally within one chamber so that the gap between the plant cultivation rack units (100) is adjusted according to the operating conditions corresponding to the door opening / closing information of the memorization chamber.

[0091] More preferably, when the control unit (500) determines that the door of the chamber (10) is open or a request for cultivation space is received, the control unit (500) can control the slide movement of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) so that the interval between each plant cultivation rack unit (100) is spaced apart by the set maximum interval (G2).

[0092] In other words, when the door of the chamber (10) is opened for the user's entry and exit, if it is determined that maintenance or the like will be performed on the plurality of plant cultivation racks (100), the control unit (500) can secure the maximum space between the plant cultivation racks (100) by making the interval between the plant cultivation racks (100) the set maximum interval (G2), thereby enabling effective maintenance of the plant cultivation racks (100) through the secured internal space.

[0093] In addition, the control unit (500) can control the slide movement of the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and LED module (600) remotely.

[0094] More specifically, when operating conditions corresponding to growth status information of cultivated crops are transmitted to a user terminal (700) (see FIG. 1), the user terminal (700) can check the transmitted growth status information and selectively control the control unit (500), and accordingly, the spacing between the plant cultivation rack unit (100) and / or the LED module (600) located within one chamber can be remotely adjusted by the user terminal (700).

[0095] In addition to the control for adjusting the spacing between the plant cultivation rack (100) and the LED module (600) for the aforementioned control unit (500), the spacing between the plant cultivation rack (100) and the LED module (600) may be adjusted through sliding movement using Internet of Things (IOT) technology.

[0096] For example, the control unit (500) receives and analyzes information such as internal temperature, humidity, light quantity, and carbon dioxide of the chamber (10), and controls the air conditioning system including the plant cultivation rack (100) and LED module (600) located within one chamber so as to maintain an appropriate growth environment condition within the chamber (10) based on the analysis results, thereby efficiently and continuously providing an environment necessary for plant growth, and as a result, also providing convenience to the user.

[0097] Fig. 8 is a drawing showing a smart farm system having a pair chamber structure according to the present embodiment.

[0098] Hereinafter, as an embodiment of the present invention, when exposed to light (sun or LED), plants convert solar or LED (light) energy into chemical energy through photosynthesis, thereby generating ATP and NADPH. Plants use the generated chemical energy to produce glucose to obtain energy and grow, and this process is defined as the "light period." In an environment without solar or LED (light) irradiation, plants stop photosynthesis and decompose stored glucose through respiration, producing secondary metabolites necessary for growth in the process, and this process is defined as the "dark period."

[0099] The smart farm system (100) having a pair chamber structure according to the present embodiment connects the first chamber (11) and the second chamber (12) into a single pair structure. The smart farm system (100) according to the present embodiment distinguishes between the first chamber (11) and the second chamber (12) so that the LED module (600) is moved to the light or dark period of each chamber according to a schedule.

[0100] Here, the period of time during which the LED module (600) is positioned refers to the period of time during which the LED module (600) is positioned, which may vary depending on the growth conditions of the cultivated organism. Furthermore, the description is based on two adjacent chambers, and when one chamber is switched to a light period, the other chamber is set to a dark period.

[0101] For example, when the first chamber (11) is set as a dark chamber, LEDs and nutrients are not supplied to the crop tray (110) attached to the dark plant cultivation rack (102) existing inside the first chamber (11). At the same time, the LED module (600) moves to the second chamber (12), and the second chamber (12) irradiates LEDs and supplies nutrients to the crop tray (110) attached to the light plant cultivation rack (101) existing inside. The smart farm system (100) having a pair chamber structure according to the present embodiment may be configured so that the crops located in the first chamber (11) and the crops located in the second chamber (12) have the same growth conditions, or may include different growth conditions. That is, when the crops placed in the first chamber (11) are crops for light cultivation, the LED module (600) can be controlled to be placed in the first chamber (11) for a relatively long time, and when the crops placed in the second chamber (12) are crops for dark cultivation, the period during which the LED module (600) is placed in the second chamber (12) can be kept relatively shorter than the period during which it is placed in the first chamber (11).

[0102] The chambers formed in pairs may include a control unit (500) that can comprehensively control each chamber, and the control unit (500) may control the movement of the LED module (600) by driving the transport device (300). In addition, the control unit (500) may determine and control the time at which the LED module (600) is located in each chamber, the on / off status of the LED module (600), and whether the air conditioning system formed in each chamber is operated. Furthermore, the control unit (500) may adjust the wavelength and intensity of the LED module (600), or control the ventilation fan and water supply (valve).

[0103] The control unit (500) can control a transport device (300) integrated into the chamber to move the LED module (600) between chambers. The transport device (300) can be integratedly positioned on the upper surfaces of the first chamber (11) and the second chamber (12), and includes a guide unit (310) that guides the direction in which the LED module (600) is inserted and moved, and a driving unit (320) that moves the LED module (600).

[0104] The transport device (300) can receive the irradiation wavelength, number of lighting cycles, and lighting time of the LED module (600) required for each chamber based on the information received from the control unit (500). In addition, the movement conditions of the LED module (600) and the time for placement in each chamber can be set based on the information received from each chamber.

[0105] According to one embodiment of the present invention, when three consecutive chambers are included, the control unit (500) receives the light time applied to the crops placed in the three chambers. Based on this, the control unit (500) can set the time for which the LED module (600) is positioned in each chamber and the LED light irradiance.

[0106] A smart farm system (100) having a pair chamber structure according to the present embodiment includes a first chamber (11) and a second chamber (12). The components included in the smart farm system (100) having a pair chamber structure are not necessarily limited thereto.

[0107] The first chamber (11) has a plurality of dark plant cultivation racks (102) arranged therein. The first chamber (11) provides an environment for performing activities during dark growth of crops according to the growth cycle of the crops. The first chamber (11) does not supply LEDs and nutrients to the crop tray (110) attached to the dark plant cultivation rack (102) existing therein. Accordingly, when the dark plant cultivation rack (102) is positioned, the LED module (600) is removed from the first chamber (11), and the air conditioning system operates while controlling the temperature to have a temperature of 15℃~25℃ → 6℃~13℃ so that the crops can perform activities that must be performed during dark growth.

[0108] In contrast, the second chamber (12) into which the LED module (600) is moved has a plurality of light-growth plant cultivation racks (101) placed therein. The second chamber (12) provides a light-growth activity environment in which crops can photosynthesize and receive nutrients according to the growth cycle of the crops. The second chamber (12) supplies LEDs and nutrients to the crop tray (110) attached to the light-growth plant cultivation rack (101) present therein. The second chamber (12) operates an air conditioning system while controlling the temperature to have a temperature of about 70°C or higher → about 15°C to about 25°C so that the crops can rest.

[0109] Accordingly, the control unit (500) can control the position of the LED module (600) so that the dark and light signals of each chamber alternate.

[0110] The first chamber (11) and the second chamber (12) are separated by a side wall. Since the first chamber (11) does not have an LED module (600), it provides an environment in which the internal temperature is lowered from 15°C to 25°C → only from 6°C to 13°C, and thus consumes less energy than the second chamber (12). Since the second chamber (12) must provide energy using an LED and a nutrient supply pipe, it must provide an environment in which the internal temperature is lowered from 250°C → only from 15°C to 25°C, and consumes relatively more energy compared to the first chamber (11) for driving the LED module (600) and supplying nutrients and water.

[0111] FIG. 9 is a drawing showing a plant cultivation rack (100) and an LED module (600) positioned adjacent thereto according to the present embodiment.

[0112] The plant cultivation rack of the present invention is configured in multiple layers along the height direction, and each row includes at least one cultivation crop tray (110). Furthermore, the plant cultivation racks can be positioned at positions corresponding to each other in the first chamber (11) and the second chamber (12), and the plant cultivation racks are configured to form the same row based on the pair chamber. That is, as illustrated, the plant cultivation racks are positioned so as to have the same row in two different chambers, and the LED module (600) moves along the space between the rows.

[0113] The LED module (600) is positioned parallel to the plant cultivation rack at a predetermined distance from the plant cultivation rack. The LED module (600) is connected to a transport device (300) whose upper end penetrates the chamber, and can be moved along adjacent pair chambers.

[0114] The LED module (600) of the present invention is arranged and controlled so that wavelength and temperature can be changed within a certain range (e.g., 380 nm to 780 nm, 2000 k to 3000 k), thereby enabling an optimized growth environment for various crops to be created. The variable wavelength LED module (600), which is an LED growth light, may be composed of an LED module (600) including a plurality of LEDs having different wavelengths. Furthermore, the LED module (600) may further include a communication interface module that controls communication with an external communication device through an MCU that constitutes the LED module (600).

[0115] Fig. 10 is a drawing showing the arrangement structure of the plant cultivation rack section within the pair chamber structure according to the present embodiment.

[0116] The first chamber (11) is a large-capacity chamber in which, for example, 12 plant cultivation racks (212) can be arranged. The plant cultivation racks (100) arranged in the first chamber (11) are configured in, for example, 6 stages, and 12 cultivation crop trays (110) can be arranged in each stage.

[0117] The second chamber (12) is a large-capacity chamber in which, for example, 12 plant cultivation racks (100) can be arranged. The plant cultivation racks (100) arranged in the second chamber (12) are configured in, for example, 6 levels, and 12 cultivation trays (110) can be arranged in each level.

[0118] According to one embodiment of the present invention, the first chamber (11) is switched to a memorized state and the second chamber (12) is switched to a known state, so that the LED module (600) is configured to move inside the second chamber (12) and be positioned adjacent to the plant cultivation rack (100).

[0119] That is, the first chamber (11) provides an environment for activities that crops growing in the crop tray (110) must perform during memorization by not supplying LED irradiation and nutrients to the crop tray (110) attached to the memorization plant cultivation rack (102) existing inside.

[0120] In addition, the second chamber (12) is configured so that the LED module (600) is positioned adjacent to the crop tray (110) attached to the light-emitting diode (LED) cultivation rack (101) existing inside, and provides an environment for performing light-emitting diode (LED) activities in which the crops growing in the crop tray (110) can photosynthesize and receive nutrients by supplying nutrients.

[0121] The second chamber (12) has an LED module (600) for irradiating LEDs on the light-use plant cultivation rack (101) and a nutrient supply pipe for supplying nutrients, so it consumes more energy than the first chamber (11) to lower the temperature inside the chamber. Thereafter, the LED module (600) located adjacent to the light-use plant cultivation rack (101) is moved to the dark-use plant cultivation rack (102) within the first chamber (11) according to a time preset in the control unit (500), thereby saving energy.

[0122] The control unit (500) includes a camera that photographs the plant cultivation rack of the chamber where the LED module (600) is located. The camera photographs the photosynthetic state of the crop tray (110) or the state of the crop in the dark, and compensates for a set time to move the LED module (600) to an adjacent chamber. That is, the set time for irradiation of the LED module (600) stored in the initial user or the control unit (500) is input, and the set time is compensated for based on the state of the crop captured by the camera, so that the LED module (600) can compensate for the standby time as needed.

[0123] FIG. 11 illustrates a coupling relationship between chambers configured as a pair according to one embodiment of the present invention.

[0124] As illustrated, the plant cultivation rack unit having the same row is included within two adjacent chambers. Furthermore, the plant cultivation rack unit located in one of the two adjacent chambers includes an LED module (600) located adjacent to the plant cultivation rack unit.

[0125] The control unit (500) can set one of two adjacent chambers as a known chamber and the other as a secret chamber. Alternatively, three adjacent chambers can be set as a single control target, with one chamber set as a known chamber and the other two chambers set as secret chambers. This can vary depending on the type of crop being grown, and a two-part chamber can be configured depending on the known time of the crop being grown.

[0126] The LED module (600) can move by penetrating the side wall between the chambers along the transport device (300). More preferably, the cover part (400) formed between the chambers is opened by the control part (500), so that the cover part (400) is selectively opened depending on the direction in which the LED module (600) moves. More preferably, the movement sensor (420) located on the side wall measures the distance to the LED module (600), and when the measured distance is less than a set distance, the cover part (400) is controlled to open by the control part (500).

[0127] That is, the control unit (500) can select a chamber requiring a light according to the user's settings, and drive the drive unit (320) of the transport device (300) so that the LED module (600) moves into the chamber requiring the light. In addition, the cover unit (400) is configured to be opened through the movement sensor (420), so that the LED module (600) can move longitudinally into the chamber requiring the light.

[0128] In addition, in the light chamber where the LED module (600) is located, the plant cultivation rack (100) can be moved in the width direction to set the gap between the LED module (600) and the plant cultivation rack (100) in response to the growth of the cultivated plants.

[0129] Moreover, the control unit (500) can reset the spacing between the plant cultivation racks (100) located in the chamber requiring memorization.

[0130] In addition, the control unit (500) is configured to control the spacing between the plant cultivation rack units (100) in a chamber requiring memorization. As illustrated, the control unit (500) receives a user's work request or maintenance request or a setting time input, and is configured to adjust the spacing between the plant cultivation rack units (100) in a memorization chamber from which the LED module (600) is removed so that each plant cultivation rack unit (100) can be easily accessed. More preferably, when the control unit (500) receives a user's work request, the control unit (500) controls the plant cultivation rack units (100) to have the maximum spacing, and the plant cultivation rack units (100) located at the bottom as illustrated are sequentially controlled to have the maximum spacing in time series.

[0131] That is, as disclosed in the drawing, the motor is controlled so that the plant cultivation rack unit (100) located at the lowest end of the memorization chamber of the illustrated drawing and the remaining rack units have the maximum distance between them, and when the control unit (500) receives a signal that the work of the lowest plant cultivation rack unit (100) is completed or when a predetermined time has elapsed, the plant cultivation rack unit (100) located second from the lowest end is moved so as to have the maximum distance from the remaining plant cultivation rack units. In this way, the movement of the rack units located within the memorization chamber is controlled so that each rack unit sequentially has the maximum distance from the plant cultivation rack unit (100) located at the lowest or highest end.

[0132] Figures 12 and 13 illustrate the configuration of the cover portion (400) of the present invention.

[0133] The control unit (500) drives the cover unit (400) to open the mutually blocked slits (410) so that the LED modules (600) can move to the adjacent chamber when one chamber forming the pair chamber is switched to the light source.

[0134] That is, the chambers include a slit (410) on one wall surface adjacent to each other, and the slit (410) forms a space larger than the width of the LED module (600). Furthermore, the chamber includes a cover portion (400) that is open along one side surface on the wall surface including the slit (410). In one embodiment of the present invention, the cover portion (400) may be positioned adjacent to the slit (410) on the inner surface of two adjacent chambers including the slit (410).

[0135] The slit (410) is configured to be sealed by the cover part (400), and the cover part (400) can be moved along the side. The cover part (400) can be opened in response to a movement command of the LED module (600) of the control part (500), and can be moved along the side wall of the chamber by receiving a driving force from the driving part (320) of the transport device (300).

[0136] In summary, the present invention comprises a plant cultivation rack comprising a plurality of cultivation trays (110) and at least two adjacent chambers fixed thereto, and an LED module (600) selectively positioned in each chamber. Here, the control unit (500) moves the LED module (600) to correspond to the growth environment of each chamber, thereby reducing the number of LED modules (600) configured in adjacent chambers.

[0137] When the side wall sensor (430) located on the side wall between the chambers measures that the LED module (600) is located within a set distance, it transmits a signal to the control unit (500) and performs control to open the cover unit (400) according to the transmitted signal. Accordingly, the LED module (600) can be moved to an adjacent chamber without being interfered with by the chamber side wall.

[0138] FIG. 14 illustrates a structure in which a frame (610) of an LED module (600) is connected to the lower surface of a chamber as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0139] The LED module (600) is configured to move between pair chambers along a guide portion (310) located at the top of the chamber, and is configured to receive driving force from a driving portion (320) located at the bottom of the chamber. The frame (610) is configured to be bound to a roller portion (330) adjacent to the driving portion (320) and to receive rotational force from the roller portion (330). The driving portion (320) is connected to at least one roller of the roller portion (330) and applies rotational force to the roller portion (330) to transmit longitudinal force to the frame (610).

[0140] The frame (610) includes a stopper (620) positioned vertically at one end where the back surface of the frame (610) and the roller portion (330) face each other, and the stopper (620) can regulate the longitudinal movement of the frame to prevent malfunction of the driving portion (320) or excessive movement of the LED module (600).

[0141] Fig. 15 illustrates a fastening relationship between an LED module (600) and a guide portion (310) as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0142] The guide unit (310) is positioned in two chambers along the longitudinal direction of the pair chamber. The guide unit (310) may be configured in the form of a rail into which at least a portion of the upper portion of the LED module (600) is inserted. The LED module (600) performs longitudinal movement of the chamber along the guide unit (310) by applying the rotational force of the driving unit (320).

[0143] Here, the control unit (500) receives location information of the LED module (600) through the side wall sensor (430) when the LED module (600) is adjacent to the side wall of the chamber located at both ends. Furthermore, when the distance of the LED module (600) measured through the side wall sensor (430) is less than the set distance, the control unit (500) switches the driving unit (320) to the off state.

[0144] FIG. 16 illustrates the configuration of a motor (220) and a guide wheel (210) fastened to a guide rail (20) as an embodiment of the present invention.

[0145] As one embodiment of the present invention, the plant cultivation rack (100) includes a guide wheel (210) that is connected to a guide rail (20). The guide wheel (210) is connected to a motor (220) so that the plant cultivation rack (100) moves along the guide rail (20) in the width direction of the chamber.

[0146] More preferably, as one embodiment of the present invention, the guide rail (20) is positioned along the width direction of the chamber in a cylindrical shape, and a plurality of plant cultivation rack units (100) are configured such that each guide wheel (210) is fastened to the guide rail (20). The motor (220) receives a driving signal from the control unit and performs movement of each plant cultivation rack unit (100).

[0147] Moreover, the control unit (500) can be configured to sequentially move one plant cultivation rack unit (100) along the guide rail (20) according to a set time, as shown in FIG. 11, thereby providing a work space for the user.

[0148] While the present invention has been described with reference to the embodiments illustrated in the drawings, these are merely exemplary. Those skilled in the art will appreciate that various modifications may be made therefrom, and that all or part of the described embodiments may be selectively combined to form a configuration. Therefore, the true scope of technical protection of the present invention should be determined by the technical spirit of the appended claims.

Claims

1. A plant cultivation rack section arranged in multiple rows inside the chamber and to which crop trays are fastened; A first chamber in which a plurality of the above plant cultivation racks are positioned; A second chamber having a plurality of said plant cultivation racks positioned adjacent to said first chamber; An LED module positioned in one of the first chamber or the second chamber and positioned adjacent to the plant cultivation rack; and A control unit for moving the LED modules to adjacent chambers and adjusting the spacing between the plurality of plant cultivation racks within one chamber; A smart farm system having a pair chamber structure in which the control unit is configured such that the first chamber and the second chamber are connected in a pair structure so that the LED module is selectively positioned in one of the first chamber and the second chamber in response to a user request or a set value.

2. In paragraph 1, A smart farm system comprising: a cover part positioned at least in the first chamber and the second chamber, and selectively opened so that the LED modules can be moved to adjacent chambers; 3. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A smart farm system in which the LED modules are configured to be alternately positioned in the first chamber and the second chamber in consideration of the user's set time or the type of crop being grown.

4. In paragraph 1, The above LED module, A smart farm system configured to move the first chamber and the second chamber by being connected to the transport devices of the first chamber and the second chamber.

5. In paragraph 4, The above transport device, A guide portion in which at least a portion of the LED module is inserted and positioned along the first chamber and the second chamber; and A smart farm system including a driving unit that applies driving force to the frame of the LED module so that the LED module moves along the guide unit.

6. In paragraph 1, A smart farm system in which the plant cultivation rack portion located in the first chamber is configured to form the same row as the plant cultivation rack portion located in the second chamber.

7. In paragraph 6, The above LED module, A smart farm system that moves while maintaining a parallel state with the plant cultivation racks of the same row located in the first and second chambers.

8. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A smart farm system in which the LED modules are controlled to be alternately positioned in each chamber for a set period of time.

9. In paragraph 8, The above control unit, A smart farm system configured to compensate for the above-mentioned set time based on information from a camera that captures the status of crops.

10. In paragraph 1, The above control unit, A smart farm system that controls the spacing between multiple plant cultivation racks in a chamber from which the above LED modules have been removed.

11. In Article 10, The above control unit, A smart farm system in which the actual cultivation rack section located at the outermost part of a plurality of plant cultivation rack sections located in a chamber from which the above LED modules have been separated is controlled to have the maximum gap in advance.

12. In paragraph 10, The above control unit, A smart farm system that sequentially controls adjacent plant cultivation racks to have the maximum spacing after the set time for the plant cultivation racks located at the outermost part has elapsed.

13. A plant cultivation rack section arranged in multiple rows inside the chamber, to which crop trays are fastened, and formed to be able to slide along a guide rail; An LED module positioned at the front and rear of the plant cultivation rack to irradiate light to the crops, and formed to be able to slide within a chamber integrally with the plant cultivation rack; and A smart farm system characterized by including a control unit that controls ON / OFF of the LED module and selectively controls slide movement of the plant cultivation rack unit and the LED module according to set operating conditions.

14. In paragraph 13, The above plant cultivation rack section is, A smart farm system formed in a multi-stage structure in which the above crop trays are connected at the front and rear.

15. In paragraph 13, The above plant cultivation rack section is, A smart farm system formed so that the angle can be adjusted toward the facing LED module.

16. In paragraph 13, The above control unit, A smart farm system in which the plant cultivation rack and the LED module are slidably moved within a single chamber so that the gap between the plant cultivation rack and the LED module is adjusted according to the operating conditions corresponding to the growth status information of the crops.

17. In paragraph 13, The above control unit, A smart farm system in which the gap between the plant cultivation rack and the LED module is adjusted according to the door opening / closing information of the chamber or the operating conditions corresponding to a user request.

18. In paragraph 17, The above control unit, A smart farm system that controls the sliding movement of the plant cultivation rack and the LED module so that the gap between the plant cultivation rack and the LED module is spaced apart by a set maximum gap when the door of the chamber is determined to be open.

Images