Greenhouse device for growing seedlings under a cover

Abstract

It is disclosed a greenhouse device (17) convenient for growing seedlings under a cover (8). The greenhouse device (17) comprises a three-compartment (9a, 9b, 9c) air mixing chamber (9) for air recirculation and regeneration purposes, and a tabletop (6) with a cover (8) made of light-permeable material forming a growing space (10). The mixing chamber (9) has three interconnected compartments (9a, 9b): compartment (9a) a) with a heater (1) to regulate the temperature of air flowing from the growing space; compartment (9b) b) with at least one valve (3) for controlled fresh air intake to regulate humidity and air interchange; and compartment (9c) c) with a fan (2) to ensure air mixing and its continuous circulation within the greenhouse device (17). The tabletop (6) has air inflow (14) and outflow holes (14) arranged in lines and corresponding air channels (7a,7b) for an interconnection with the mixing chamber (9).

Description

[0001] GREENHOUSE DEVICE FOR GROWING SEEDLINGS UNDER A COVER

[0002] DESCRIPTION

[0003] Field of the invention

[0004]

[0001] The invention relates to portable greenhouses and heating systems of the same. In particular, the invention pertains to a portable greenhouse of the type having an air mixing chamber, where air from the growing space within the greenhouse is combined with fresh ambient air. The air mixture can then be distributed back into the growing space of the portable greenhouse.

[0005] Background of the invention

[0006]

[0002] Greenhouses are structures that provide a controlled environment for growing plants, extending growing seasons and enabling year-round cultivation. Greenhouses should effectively maintain temperature and humidity levels, offering protection from harsh weather conditions. While traditional greenhouses are often large and stationary, a compact portable greenhouse is desired for plant cultivation purposes in areas with limited space or for individuals in need of flexibility. Its small size makes it suitable for urban gardens, balconies, or even as a temporary setup. The portability allows easy relocation to optimize sunlight exposure or to adapt to changing weather conditions.

[0007]

[0003] Ventilation is a critical element in greenhouse management, playing a key role in maintaining a healthy environment for plant growth. Without proper ventilation, greenhouses can face numerous issues, including temperature and humidity imbalances, which can hinder plant development. Effective ventilation not only regulates these factors but also promotes air circulation, preventing the buildup of harmful plant pathogens that thrive in stagnant air. Furthermore, it provides fresh air essential for photosynthesis and plant respiration.

[0008]

[0004] In colder climates, heating and ventilation can account for a significant portion of a greenhouse's operational costs, therefore, it is crucial to provide a portable greenhouse that would allow to effectively grow plants in a limited space, effectively managing both ventilation and heating, to reduce energy consumption and therefore maintain both optimal conditions for plant growth and economic benefit.

[0009]

[0005] Greenhouse plant growing and warm air supply of the same are known from the prior art. Existing devices, as outlined in patent applications such as WO 2015 / 012698, WO 2011 / 028100, WO 2007 / 114688, RU 2283578, JP2005034043 and FR2621448, primarily focus on heating plants or providing general climate control within the greenhouse. However, these inventions do not specifically target the localized and efficient cultivation of seedlings under a light-permeable cover, such as film, in a manner that reduces energy consumption and improves growing conditions. None of the above documents address the specific need for a system that allows seedlings to be grown directly under a cover. The lack of such a dedicated solution highlights the opportunity for innovation in this area.

[0010]

[0006] The primary disadvantage of existing devices for greenhouse plant cultivation and air heating is that the heat is delivered to plants through ventilation pipes or directly by heating the ground, causing the warm air to spread throughout the entire greenhouse. This results in significant energy efficiency losses, as the heat is not concentrated where it is needed most. Additionally, these devices do not allow for the plants to be covered with film or other light-permeable materials, which is crucial for protecting seedlings. When coverings are used on existing devices, an adequate air circulation and proper moisture levels, which are essential for healthy seedling growth, cannot be ensured. As a result, the seedlings are at risk of poor air circulation and excessive moisture, which can cause them to rot, if covers are used.

[0011]

[0007] International patent application WO 2017 / 188804 A is considered to be the closest prior art to the invention disclosed in this patent application. The device disclosed in the above international patent application is aimed at fully heating plants along the whole height thereof in greenhouses with minimal heat loss and energy cost. The disclosed device directs warm air to the plants, preventing the air from dispersing throughout the greenhouse and ensuring the air from the growing space returns directly to the device, thus maintaining more efficient heating. However, one of the key limitations of said device, similarly to the previously mentioned technical solutions, is that it does not allow seedlings to be covered with a cover, for example, made of film or other light-permeable materials. Additionally, the disclosed device is heavy and stationary, making unsuitable for environments with limited space. It has a complex construction which also adds to the difficulty of use and maintenance. Furthermore, the design of the tabletop in WO 2017 / 188804 A is not suitable for commonly used plant containers, for example, boxes or pots, limiting its versatility and making it less practical for various types of plant cultivation. These factors highlight the need for more efficient, adaptable, and convenient alternatives.

[0012]

[0008] The objective of the invention is to address the challenges mentioned above by ensuring optimal air quality for plants grown directly under the film in a localized manner, at a low cost, providing an energy-efficient and practical approach for growing plants under protective coverings while maintaining the necessary environmental conditions for healthy development. This includes regulating heating, cooling, air recirculation, and fresh air mixing, all tailored to the specific needs of the seedlings. The device disclosed in the present patent application is designed to operate on a compact tabletop, allowing for efficient plant growth with minimal space usage.

[0013] Summary of the invention

[0014]

[0009] The aim of the invention is to develop a convenient, automated tabletop system for growing seedlings under a cover, i.e. greenhouse device, suitable for both large and small households, minimizing energy consumption.

[0015]

[0010] The patent application describes a compact greenhouse device that operates during both low ambient air temperatures during winter time and high ambient air temperatures during summer time. The device comprises two main parts: a three-compartment air mixing chamber and a tabletop with a cover, that defines a growing space. Said tabletop has holes for air inflow and outflow by means of air recirculation, and air channels. The mixing chamber has three interrelated compartments that produce air of optimal quality for plant growth. The above-mentioned compartments are defined by a spacer assembled in a housing of the mixing chamber. Compartment a) comprises a heater to regulate the temperature of the air flowing from the growing space to the mixing chamber for recirculation; compartment b) comprises at least one valve for a controlled fresh air intake allowing to regulate the amount of fresh air and as a result the humidity of the air within the greenhouse device by expelling excess moisture from the growing space; compartment c) comprises a fan for a continuous air circulation within the system. Moreover, the compartment c) can be supplemented with probes for additional humidification or additional plant nutrition or disinfection, where plant supplements are injected directly to the air flow flowing from the mixing chamber to the growing space. The air from the growing space flows into the mixing chamber through air channels under the tabletop, wherein each air channel has a corresponding air inflow hole located in a part of the tabletop that, when the greenhouse device is assembled, forms a part of the surface of the housing of the mixing chamber, in particular, of the compartment a). The air flowing into the compartment a) of the mixing chamber is heated by passing through heater located in the compartment a) of the mixing chamber. The heated air is then directed straight into the compartment b) through holes in the spacer, where it is mixed with a fresh air that enters the mixing chamber via at least one valve. The spacer is formed so that within the mixing chamber the compartments a) and b) as well as b) and c) are interconnected. However, there is no direct connection between compartments a) and c) in order to ensure proper circulation of air within the greenhouse device. Both circulating and fresh air present in compartment b) are further mixed by means of the fan and then fed further through air outflow holes in the tabletop to the growing space via corresponding air channels under the tabletop. Said air outflow holes are located in a part of the tabletop that, when the greenhouse device is assembled, forms a part of the surface of the housing of the mixing chamber, in particular, of the compartment c).

[0016] [Oil] The controlled environment of the growing space during winter is maintained by a heater that keeps the temperature suitable for seedlings, regardless of the ambient air temperature. In summer, when the greenhouse device may be prone to overheating, the at least one valve controlling the fresh air inflow, along with the fan in the mixing chamber, ensures cooling of the growing space.

[0017]

[0012] Effect of the disclosed invention is in its lightweight and compact design, making it easy to move the greenhouse around. It offers a localized greenhouse effect with air recirculation and fresh air supply, providing a suitable environment for seedlings under the cover. The device is also versatile and is not limited to disclosed herein components, meaning that filters, ionizers, humidifiers, probes or other elements can be added to the construction of the greenhouse device to further promote plant growth. The device ensures convenient and cost-effective, potentially reducing energy-related costs by up to ten times, temperature control and regulation, it requires minimal production investment, and can be assembled without special expertise. Furthermore, the device is easy to service and maintain and is suitable for all types of greenhouses and household applications.

[0018]

[0012] The disclosed invention is particularly suitable for use with heat pumps, compressor technologies, or solar batteries. During operation it does not require ventilation hatches or doors as that of conventional stationary greenhouses. The components of the device can be made from either metal, foe example, tin or plastic, but are not limited to any other for greenhouse purposes suitable material. One of the key effects of the invention is its simplicity in control of environmental conditions, making it accessible to users of all kinds. Additionally, significant attention has been given to ensuring easy access for maintenance and cleaning, with the mechanical components conveniently positioned on the tabletop at a height that allows for effortless interaction.

[0019] Brief description of the drawings

[0020]

[0013] The drawings illustrate generally, by way of example, but not by way of limitation, various embodiments of the invention.

[0021]

[0014] Fig. 1 illustrates main components of a portable greenhouse device (17) in an unassembled state, comprising a heater (1), a fan (2), a fresh air supply valve (3), a spacer (4), a housing (5) of a mixing chamber (9), a tabletop (6) with air inflow (14) and outflow (13) holes for air circulation, air channels (7), a cover (8) made of film or any other transparent material. Air channels (7a) and (7b) correspond to air outflow (13) holes and air inflow (14) holes of the tabletop (6) accordingly.

[0015] Fig. 2 illustrates the portable greenhouse device (17) as of Fig. 1 in an assembled state. Arrows indicate air flows by means of recirculation, i.e. air inflow (14) and outflow (13), within the greenhouse device (17), and an inflow (15) of the fresh air from the outside of the device via air supply valve (3).

[0022]

[0016] Fig. 3 illustrates two main components of the portable greenhouse device (17) as of Fig. 2, namely, a mixing chamber (9), in which an air suitable for growing plants is prepared by mixing fresh air with a recirculated air, and a tabletop (6) with holes (13, 14) and air channels (7a, 7b) underneath the same for placing and growing plants under the cover (8).

[0023]

[0017] Fig. 4 illustrates a tabletop (6) with holes (11, 12, 13, 14) and air channels (7a, 7b) under the tabletop (6) for air circulation. Holes (11) are air outflow holes of a tabletop (6) for air flow from a mixing chamber. Holes (12) are air inflow holes of a tabletop for air flow to a mixing chamber. Holes (13) are air outflow holes of tabletop for air flow from a growing space. Holes (14) are air inflow holes of a tabletop for air flow to a growing space. Air channels (7a) are connected with holes (12) and (13). Air channels (7b) are connected with holes (14) and (11).

[0024]

[0018] Fig. 5 illustrates a cross-sectional side view of the mixing chamber (9) as of Figs. 1-4, comprising three compartments (9a, 9b, 9c), and air flows within the same. Compartments (9a) and (9b) are interconnected by means of through holes (16) in the spacer (4). In turn, compartments (9b) and (9c) are interconnected by means of the fan (2). There is no direct connection between compartments (9a) and (9c).

[0025]

[0019] Fig. 6 illustrates a cross-sectional front view as seen from the side of the tabletop (6), when the greenhouse device (17) is in an assembled state, showing circulation of air flows within the device, in particular, the tabletop (6) and compartment (9a) of the mixing device (9).

[0026]

[0020] Fig. 7 illustrates a cross-sectional back view as seen from the side of the mixing chamber (9), when the portable greenhouse device (17) in an assembled state, showing circulation of air flows within the mixing chamber (9), in particular, compartments (9b) and (9c).

[0027]

[0021] Fig. 8 illustrates a top view of an alternative embodiment of the greenhouse device (17), where the mixing chamber (8) is arranged under the tabletop (6).

[0028]

[0022] Fig. 9 illustrates a cross-sectional view of the alternative embodiment of the greenhouse device (17) as of Fig. 8.

[0029] Detailed description of the embodiments

[0030]

[0023] The preferred embodiments of the invention are now described with reference to the figures to illustrate objectives, advantages, and efficiency of the present invention.

[0031]

[0024] As seen from Fig 1. a greenhouse device (17) for growing seedlings under a cover disclosed herewith comprises a heater (1), a fan (2), a fresh air supply valve (3), a spacer (4) and a housing (5) made of metal, in particular, tin or plastic or any other suitable material, a tabletop (6) having air inflow (14) and outflow holes (13), air channels (7a, 7b) for distribution of air heated in the mixing chamber (9) to the seedlings and a cover (8).

[0032]

[0025] Fig. 2 illustrates the greenhouse device (17) in an assembled state, wherein the greenhouse device (17) comprises two main parts: a three- compartment air mixing chamber (9), where each compartment (9a, 9b, 9c) performs a specific function to generate air of optimal quality for plant growth under the cover (8), and a tabletop (6) with a cover (8), wherein the tabletop (6) comprises air inflow (14) and outflow (13) holes and corresponding air channels (7a, 7b) under the tabletop (6) for air circulation within the greenhouse device (17). Air outflow (13) and inflow (14) holes are arranged in lines above the corresponding air channels (7a, 7b). The lines of the air outflow (13) and inflow (14) holes are alternating. The tabletop (6) together with the cover (8) define a space for growing plants (10). Fig. 2 schematically shows air flows within the growing space (10). When the heated air enters the growing space (10) via inflow holes (14), it is simultaneously drawn back for reprocessing to the mixing device (9) via outflow holes (13) in the surface of the tabletop (6) due to recirculation, where it undergoes further heating or cooling as needed, therefore ensuring a steady supply of optimal air for plant growth. Additionally, fresh air (15) is introduced into the greenhouse device (17) via the fresh air supply valve (3), ensuring that the plants receive the necessary ventilation and environmental conditions, i.e. desired humidity, for healthy development.

[0033]

[0026] Fig. 3 illustrates two main components of the portable greenhouse device (17) as of Fig. 2, namely, a mixing chamber (9) and a tabletop (6) with air inflow and outflow holes (11, 12, 13, 14) and air channels (7a, 7b) underneath the tabletop (6) for placing and growing plants. The surface of the tabletop (6) on which the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) is placed, when the device is in the assembled state, has corresponding air inflow (12) and outflow (11) holes that provide air circulation within the mixing chamber in particular and connect the mixing chamber (9) with the growing space (10) in general. Fig. 4 complements Fig. 3 and shows the air flows within the mixing chamber (9) and the growing space (10), with the tabletop (6) used as a reference.

[0034]

[0027] According to Fig. 5 the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) together with a spacer (4) and the tabletop (6) in the assembled state define the compartments (9a, 9b, 9c) of the mixing chamber (9). Said spacer (4) has a vertical portion (4a) and a horizontal portion (4b), with the horizontal portion (4b) being positioned along the middle line of the vertical portion (4a) of the spacer (4), at a right angle to the vertical portion (4a) of the same. The compartments (9a) and (9b) are interconnected by means of through holes (16) arranged in the vertical portion (4a) of the spacer (4), and the compartments (9b) and (9c) are interconnected by means of the fan (2) arranged in the horizontal portion (4b) of the spacer (4). The air flow between compartments (9a) and (9c) is ensured through the compartment (9b). The compartment (9a) is equipped with a heater (1) for heating the air flowing from the growing space (10) via air inflow holes (12) of the tabletop (6), said part of the tabletop (6) with air inflow holes (12) defines a bottom surface of the compartment (9a). The compartment (9b) is equipped with at least one valve (3) arranged on a top surface of the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) that corresponds to the compartment (9b) for adjustable supply of a fresh air (15) from an outside of the greenhouse device (17), for cooling of the air inside the greenhouse device (17) and expelling the excess moisture, when in need. The fresh air supply valve (3) can be as well arranged on a side surface of the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) that corresponds to the compartment (9b). The compartment (9c) is equipped with at least one built-in fan (2) arranged in the common wall between the compartments (9b) and (9c), said common wall is defined by the horizontal part (4b) of the spacer (4), for air recirculation within the greenhouse device (17). The part of the tabletop (6) with air outflow holes (11) defines a bottom surface of the compartment (9c). The air from the greenhouse growing space (10) enters the compartment (9a) of the mixing chamber (9) via inflow holes (12) of the tabletop (6), passes through the heater (1), and is therefore heated in a controlled manner. After being heated, the air flows from the compartment (9a) into the compartment (9b) of the mixing chamber (9). Simultaneously, the fresh air (15) is introduced into the compartment (9b) of the mixing chamber (9) via the fresh air supply valve (3) arranged in the top or side surface of the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) that corresponds to the compartment (9b). As a result, the flow of the heated air from compartment (9a) after entering the compartment (9b) is subsequently mixed with the fresh air (15) by means of the fan (2). Due to both air circulation and conditioning processes, the air becomes suitable for growing seedlings. The flow of mixed air enters the compartment (9c) and is further directed to the air channels (7b) of the tabletop (6) though air outflow holes (11), ensuring a steady flow of optimal air to the tabletop (6) and the growing space (10). This controlled delivery of air, by circulation, heating, and fresh air integration, creates the suitable conditions for the seedlings, promoting their healthy growth under the cover (8).

[0035]

[0028] As shown in Fig.6, the mixing chamber (9) and the growing space (10) of the device are connected, creating a complete cycle of air recirculation. Air flows through the air inflow and outflow holes (14, 13) in the tabletop (6) into the air channels (7a, 7b). Air channels (7a) direct air into the heating compartment (9a) of the mixing chamber (9) via holes (12). Through holes (16) of the spacer (4) allow the heated air to flow into the compartment (9b) of the mixing chamber (9), and subsequently to chamber (9c) via the fan and back to the growing space (10) via air channels (7b), therefore providing a continuous cycle.

[0029] The rear view of the greenhouse device (17) shown in Fig.7, schematically disclosing the pattern of the air circulation within the compartments (9b) and (9c) of the mixing chamber (9). The air flowing from the compartment (9a) is mixed with fresh air (15) before being drawn through the fan (2) into the third compartment (9c). Afterwards, it is further directed to the growing space (10) via outflow holes (11) of the tabletop (6).

[0036]

[0030] Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 illustrate an alternative embodiment of the greenhouse device (17), where the mixing chamber (9) is arranged under the tabletop (6). The construction of the mixing chamber (9) is inversed vertically, if compared to that of the previously disclosed embodiment. As a result, the part of the surface of the tabletop (6) that defines the upper surface of the compartment (9a) and (9c) as seen in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9 is not equipped with through holes, because the air flowing to and from the mixing chamber (9) directly enters the air channels (7a) and (7b) accordingly under the tabletop (6). The compartment (9c) is interconnected with the air channels (7b) delivering air to the growing space (10), and the compartment (9a) is interconnected with the air channels (7a) delivering air to the mixing chamber (9). An additional advantage of disclosed embodiment is that arrangement of the mixing chamber (9) under the tabletop (6) creates additional space in the growing area (10), i.e. above the mixing chamber (9), allowing more convenient and efficient use of the device.

[0037]

[0031] While the invention may be susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific embodiments of which have been shown by way of example in the figures and have been described in detail herein, it should be understood that the invention is not intended to be limited to the particular forms disclosed. Rather, the invention includes all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the scope of the invention as defined by the following claims.

[0038] List of references

[0039] 1 - a heater

[0040] 2 - a fan

[0041] 3 - a fresh air supply valve

[0042] 4 - a spacer

[0043] 4a - a vertical portion of a spacer

[0044] 4b - a horizontal portion of a spacer

[0045] 5 - a housing of a mixing chamber - a tabletop - air channels a - air channel for air flow to a mixing chamber from a growing spaceb - air channel for air flow from a mixing chamber to a growing space - a cover - a mixing chamber a, 9b, 9c - compartments of a mixing chamber 0 - a tabletop with a cover 1 - air outflow holes of a tabletop for air flow from a mixing chamber2 - air inflow holes of a tabletop for air flow to a mixing chamber3 - air outflow holes of tabletop for air flow from a growing space4 - air inflow holes of a tabletop for air flow to a growing space 5 - fresh air inflow 6 - through holes of a spacer 7 - a greenhouse device

Claims

CLAIMS1. A portable greenhouse device (17) for growing seedlings in a controlled environment under a cover (8), wherein the greenhouse device (17) comprises an air mixing chamber (9) and a growing space (10), said mixing chamber (9) has a heater (1), at least one fan (2), at least one fresh air supply valve (3), a spacer (4), and a housing (5), wherein said spacer (4) is arranged in a housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) in a manner that, when the greenhouse device (17) is assembled, it defines the compartments (9a, 9b, 9c) of the mixing chamber (9), wherein said spacer (4) has a vertical portion (4a) and a horizontal portion (4b), with the horizontal portion (4b) being positioned longitudinally along the midline of the vertical portion (4a) of the spacer (4), at a right angle to the vertical portion (4a) of the same, the compartments (9a) and (9b) are interconnected by means of through holes (16) arranged in the vertical portion (4a) of the spacer (4), and the compartments (9b) and (9c) are interconnected by means of the fan (2) arranged in the horizontal part (4b) of the spacer (4), wherein the compartment (9a) has the heater (1) that heats the air flowing from the growing space (10), and the compartment (9b) has at least one fresh air supply valve (3) arranged in a surface of the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) that corresponds to the compartment (9b) for a fresh air inflow (15), said growing space (10) has a tabletop (6) and the cover (8), wherein the tabletop (6) has multiple air inflow (14) and air outflow (13) through holes, arranged in lines for air circulation, and air channels (7a, 7b) under the corresponding said lines of the air through holes (13, 14) of the tabletop (6), connecting the growing space (10) with the mixing chamber (9), wherein a part of the tabletop (6) that is in conjunction which the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9), when the greenhouse device (17) is in the assembled state, forms a common surface with the mixing chamber (9), wherein the mixing chamber (9) is arranged on or under the tabletop (6), wherein, when the mixing chamber (9) is arranged on the tabletop (6), said common surface of the tabletop (6) and the mixing chamber (9) has multiple air inflow (12) and outflow (11) holes that provide air circulation to and from the mixing chamber (9) and connect the mixing chamber (9) with the growing space (10) via air channels (7a, 7b), wherein the air inflow holes (12) are positioned such that the air flowing from the growing space (10) via corresponding air channels(7a) enters the compartment (9a) through said air inflow holes (12), and the air outflow holes (11) are positioned such that the mixed air from the compartment (9c) flowing to the growing space (10) enters the corresponding air channels (7b) through said air outflow holes (11), wherein, when the mixing chamber (9) is arranged below the tabletop (6), said common surface of the tabletop (6) and the mixing chamber (9) is solid, the air channels (7) that direct air to (7a) and from (7b) the mixing chamber (9) are directly connected with compartment (9a) and compartment (9c) accordingly.

2. The greenhouse device (17) according to claim 1, characterized in that at least one fresh air supply valve (3) comprises an additional fan to cool the fresh air inflow (15).

3. The greenhouse device (17) according to any of preceding claims, characterized in that the air flow from the mixing chamber (9), entering the growing space (10) through air inflow holes (14) of the tabletop (6), covers the full height of the seedling placed in a container.

4. The greenhouse device (17) according to any of preceding claims, characterized in that the height of the seedling with the container defines the distance between the tabletop (6) and the cover (8) of the growing space (10), wherein said distance is variable.

5. The greenhouse device (17) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that, when the air flow enters the growing space (10) via air inflow holes (14), it is simultaneously drawn back for reprocessing to the mixing chamber (9) via air outflow holes (13) in the surface of the tabletop (6).

6. The greenhouse device (17) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the seedlings in the containers are placed on the tabletop (6) in an area of air recirculation.

7. The greenhouse device (17) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the fresh air supply valve (3) can be arranged on a top surface or a side surface of the housing (5) of the mixing chamber (9) that corresponds to the compartment (9b).

8. The greenhouse device (17) according to any of the preceding claims, characterized in that the greenhouse device (17) further comprises at least one of the following: a humidifier, an air filtering system, an ionizer, a heat pump, a probe, a solar panel.

Images