Modular agricultural fence with solar zones and environmental control features

Abstract

The invention relates to a fence (1) for protecting a planted area, comprising a plurality of glass elements (2) supported by vertical posts (3) mounted in or on an underlayer (4). Each glass element (2) includes one or more zones (5) that reduce sunlight permeability, each zone (5) comprising one or more bifacial solar cells. The total sunlight permeability through each glass element is within the range of 5-45%, enabling light transmission suitable for plant growth while generating solar energy. The fence may serve as a wind barrier and is optionally configured to attenuate noise using laminated glass, gas-filled cavities, or varying pane thicknesses. It may also supply power to agricultural systems such as irrigation or environmental sensors. The fence can include features such as non-vertical mounting, orientation-based zone distribution, and modular, replaceable panels tailored to crop type or seasonal conditions.

Description

[0001] Modular agricultural fence with solar zones and environmental control features

[0002] Technical field

[0003] The present invention relates to a fence for the protection of a planted area, in particular one configured to function as a wind fence, while also providing partial sunlight permeability and solar energy generation through bifacial solar cells integrated into glass elements.

[0004] Background of the invention

[0005] Wind Fences in Agriculture

[0006] Setting up wind fences is a widely used strategy to mitigate the adverse effects of wind on plant growth and crop production. By reducing wind speed in protected zones, wind fences help minimize physical damage to plants, including wind whipping and mechanical stress. This protection maintains plant structural integrity and supports healthier growth.

[0007] In addition, wind fences contribute to water conservation by lowering transpiration rates. This is particularly crucial in arid or drought-prone areas, where preserving soil moisture is essential and irrigation resources may be limited.

[0008] Wind fences also benefit pollination by moderating wind gusts that can interfere with the activity of insect pollinators. This is particularly important for insect-pollinated crops, where efficient pollination directly affects yield. Furthermore, by reducing wind speed, wind fences help limit the drift of pesticides and herbicides. This improves the precision and efficacy of chemical treatments while reducing contamination risks to adjacent ecosystems.

[0009] Crucially, wind fences contribute to the creation of a more stable microclimate. They buffer crops against sudden temperature fluctuations and create more favorable growing conditions, which is especially beneficial for temperature-sensitive plant species.

[0010] Impact of Noise Pollution on Plant Health

[0011] Beyond wind, another emerging environmental factor affecting plant health is noise pollution, particularly from traffic and urban development. This area of research intersects plant physiology, ecology, and environmental science and has important implications for agriculture in peri-urban and urbanized areas.

[0012] Sound waves, such as those from road traffic, are mechanical pressure waves that travel through the air. These can induce vibrations in plant tissues, potentially activating mechanosensitive ion channels within plant cells. These channels can alter intracellular signaling pathways, potentially triggering stress responses similar to those caused by wind or mechanical contact.

[0013] Recent studies suggest that traffic noise may alter the expression of genes related to stress responses, hormone signaling, and photosynthesis. For example, elevated noise exposure has been shown to reduce the rate of photosynthesis, likely by affecting the opening and closing of stomatai pores on the leaves. This reduces the plant's ability to absorb carbon dioxide and produce the energy molecules necessary for growth. Prolonged noise exposure may also lead to oxidative stress, a condition resulting from an imbalance between reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and the plant's antioxidant defenses. Oxidative stress can damage lipids, proteins, and DNA, adversely affecting crop yield and quality.

[0014] Moreover, noise pollution can interfere with plant-pollinator interactions. Pollinators such as bees rely on acoustic and chemical cues to locate flowers. In noisy environments, these signals may be masked, reducing the effectiveness of pollination and consequently decreasing fruit and seed set.

[0015] Despite these findings, the full extent of noise pollution's effects on crops remains underexplored. More comprehensive field and laboratory studies are needed to understand the physiological and ecological mechanisms involved. This research is vital for informing agricultural practices and urban planning policies in an increasingly noisy world.

[0016] Design Considerations for Wind Fences

[0017] While wind fences are effective at reducing wind and creating a favorable microclimate, their deployment must be carefully planned. A potential drawback is reduced sunlight due to shading, which can limit photosynthesis and hamper plant growth.

[0018] The degree of shading depends on several variables, including the fence's height, material density, orientation, and geographic location. For example, in higher latitudes where the sun remains low in the sky for extended periods, poorly positioned wind fences may block significant sunlight during critical growth periods.

[0019] To mitigate these effects, the design and placement of wind fences should be optimized. Strategies include:

[0020] Selecting materials (e.g., porous, lattice, or plant-based) that allow partial light transmission;

[0021] Orienting fences based on sun angles throughout the year; and Choosing plant-compatible crops or cultivars that tolerate partial shade.

[0022] These design adaptations ensure that wind fences continue to provide protective benefits without unduly limiting solar exposure.

[0023] Relevant Prior Art

[0024] WO2018234356A2 describes a construction unit for a delimitation device, such as a fence, used to separate two areas. This device includes surfaces with integrated solar panels and associated conductor arrangements, mounted on vertical posts anchored in a substrate.

[0025] However, while WO2018234356A2 emphasizes energy generation and structural modularity, it does not address the challenges posed by environmental stressors such as wind and noise in agricultural settings. Nor does it consider the microclimatic or physiological impacts of environmental forces on plant health. The present application addresses these unmet needs by exploring solutions that integrate environmental buffering, crop productivity, and ecological resilience.

[0026] Object of the invention

[0027] The object of the present invention is to optimize the plant growth, in particular in the fields, by means of a fence, and at the same to avoid delimitations of the placement of the fence. Furthermore, it is an object of the invention to reduce the CO2 emissions from the plant production.

[0028] Summary of the invention

[0029] The present invention relates to a fence structure designed to protect planted areas, particularly agricultural fields, from environmental stressors such as wind and excessive solar radiation.

[0030] The invention also contributes to environmental sustainability by integrating bifacial solar technology to enable renewable energy generation directly within the protective structure.

[0031] Conventional wind fences effectively reduce wind speed and associated mechanical stress on crops but typically cast substantial shadows or provide uneven light transmission, which can inhibit plant growth. Furthermore, traditional fencing solutions do not contribute to energy production, nor do they address growing concerns about the impact of noise pollution on crop development and pollinator behavior.

[0032] The present invention addresses these limitations by providing a multifunctional fence composed of semi-transparent glass elements with integrated bifacial solar cells. These glass elements are specifically engineered to allow controlled sunlight permeability, enough to support healthy plant growth, while reducing reflection and contributing to noise mitigation. The fence is designed to be robust, modular, and adaptable in both its structural and optical characteristics.

[0033] In addition to providing wind and noise protection, the invention enables on-site solar energy generation, supporting a range of smart agricultural technologies and reducing dependence on external power sources.

[0034] In particular, the invention incorporates features that allow customization based on the geographical location, sun path, crop type, and seasonal conditions. It includes innovations such as nonvertical mounting angles, density gradients of solar cell zones across the glass surface, and modular, replaceable glass panels suited for varying agronomic needs.

[0035] Description of the figures

[0036] Fig. 1 shows a part of the first embodiment of the invention.

[0037] Fig. 2 shows a cross section of a second embodiment of the invention.

[0038] Fig. 3 shows a part of a second embodiment of the invention. References

[0039] 1 Fence

[0040] 2 Glass elements

[0041] 3 Vertical elements

[0042] 4 Underlayer

[0043] 5 Zone

[0044] 6 Bottom plate

[0045] 7 Profile

[0046] 8 Butyl rubber

[0047] 9 First glass pane

[0048] 10 Adhesive mass

[0049] 11 Bifacial solar cell

[0050] 12 First gap

[0051] 13 Middle (third) plate

[0052] 14 Second gap

[0053] 15 Last (second) glass pane

[0054] Detailed description of the invention

[0055] A first aspect relates to a fence for the protection of a planted area, comprising:

[0056] - a plurality of glass elements; and

[0057] - a plurality of vertical elements or posts configured for mounting in or on an underlayer and supporting the glass elements; wherein each glass element comprises one or more zones configured to impede sunlight permeability, each zone comprising one or more bifacial solar cells, and wherein the total sunlight permeability through each glass element is within the range of 5- 45%. A second aspect relates to a planted area, preferably a field, at least partially delimited by a fence as described in the first aspect.

[0058] Functional use in agricultural and garden settings

[0059] The fence preferably functions as a wind fence such that the wind effect on the plants is minimized. At the same time, the fence is optimized such that it does not completely provide shade for the plants placed in its vicinity but allows a sufficient amount of sunlight to pass through so that the plants are not damaged. However, the planting can also take place in a garden.

[0060] Glass can have varying degrees of reflectivity depending on its surface treatment and material composition. Glass used in solar cell panels or ordinary window glass, for example, has a natural ability to reflect and refract light, which not only affects the light intensity but also the spectral distribution of the light reaching the plants. Certain types of glass can filter more UV and blue light, which can alter the environmental signals received by plants and thus negatively impact their growth and development. For example, if the glass reflects more UV light or light in the blue spectrum, this may affect the photosynthetic activity of plants, since these wavelengths are critical for photosynthesis. Blue light is particularly important for the regulation of various physiological processes such as leaf development, stem elongation, flower opening, and phototropism, where plants grow in the direction of the light source. Reflection from glass can also result in localized heat zones where plants are subjected to higher temperatures than the surrounding environment. This can be particularly problematic for plants sensitive to heat stress. Heat stress can accelerate transpiration, water loss through the leaves, which may lead to faster drying of the plant and potential cellular damage.

[0061] Plants use light not only for photosynthesis but also for regulating various biological processes through photoreceptors that respond to specific wavelengths. Intense and unbalanced light exposure can disrupt these signaling pathways, resulting in changes to plant morphology and growth habits, a phenomenon known as photomorphogenesis.

[0062] The inventor has observed that the use of bifacial solar cells in the zones that impede sunlight permeability also reduces the glass's reflection of sunlight. When solar cells are integrated into the glass elements, light absorption increases, reducing the amount of light reflected back from the glass. This effect is attributed to the fact that the solar cells absorb a significant portion of the incident light that would otherwise have been reflected.

[0063] The inventor has further determined that the total sunlight permeability through each glass element must be within the range of 5-45%, preferably 10-40%, and ideally 20-35%.

[0064] Zone distribution and light targeting

[0065] In one or more embodiments, at least a part of the glass elements is constructed such that the zones have a higher density in the upper part of the glass element compared to the lower part. In one or more alternative embodiments, at least a part of the glass elements is constructed such that the zones have a higher density in the lower part of the glass element compared to the upper part. These embodiments ensure that planting receives appropriate sunlight at specific heights relative to the fence and the soil.

[0066] Environmental and energy efficiency benefits

[0067] An added benefit of using bifacial solar cells is the reduction of CO2 emissions originating from agricultural production. Solar cell technology has proven to be a promising solution for agriculture aiming to reduce emissions and improve sustainability. Agriculture is both a significant energy consumer and a major source of greenhouse gas emissions, making it a key sector for implementing green initiatives.

[0068] By integrating solar cells into wind fences or other fencing systems, agriculture can utilize otherwise unused boundary areas for renewable energy production. This direct generation of electricity from sunlight reduces the reliance on fossil fuels and thereby lowers the sector's carbon footprint. Furthermore, the generation of on-site power enables greater energy independence and long-term reduction of energy costs, particularly advantageous given the volatility of energy prices and the high energy demands of agricultural operations. It also eliminates the need for extensive expansion of electricity grid infrastructure. Solar energy provides a stable and predictable power source, enhancing economic sustainability for agricultural enterprises. With power supplied by solar cells, agriculture can effectively integrate advanced technologies such as automated irrigation systems and precision farming tools. These improvements not only contribute to higher productivity but also to further reductions in CO2 emissions, as more efficient agricultural methods tend to be more sustainable.

[0069] Technical construction of glass elements

[0070] The primary purpose of the glass on the front side of solar panels is to maximize sunlight absorption. While glass is transparent and permits sunlight to pass through, it reflects a small portion of the light, which is a critical factor for maintaining high energy conversion efficiency. The glass also protects the sensitive photovoltaic cells from environmental impacts such as rain, snow, hail, and dust, all of which can damage the cells and impair the performance and longevity of the panel. Additionally, the glass provides structural strength, allowing the panel to withstand physical impacts and environmental fluctuations, and it helps regulate the temperature of the photovoltaic cells to avoid overheating and preserve their functionality.

[0071] Unlike standard solar cells, which typically have glass only on the front side, bifacial solar panels use glass on both the front and back sides. This dual-glass configuration enables them to capture sunlight and generate electricity from both directions, increasing energy production, particularly in high-sunlight environments.

[0072] However, conventional solar panels allow a total sunlight permeability of less than 1%, making them unsuitable for the current invention. Therefore, the glass elements used in the invention are specially manufactured to provide a total sunlight permeability in the range of 5-45%, preferably 10-40%, and ideally 20-35%.

[0073] The glass also contributes to the weight of each element and, therefore, to the total weight of the fence. Preferably, the fence has a weight of at least 20 kg / m2. It may be constructed as a continuous, tightly closed system that seals effectively against the terrain.

[0074] In one or more embodiments, each glass element comprises a first glass pane with a front surface and an opposed back surface, and a second glass pane with a front surface and an opposed back surface. These glass panes are arranged so that a space is formed between their back surfaces. In some embodiments, one or both spaces are evacuated to form a vacuum. In other embodiments, one or both spaces are filled with argon, krypton, or xenon to improve sound dampening.

[0075] The optimal mutual distance between the glass panes is in the range of 1 to 10 mm, and the thickness of the glass panes is preferably between 2 and 10 mm. This configuration offers a good balance between sound-dampening performance and manufacturing cost. However, depending on requirements, the pane spacing may vary between 0.1 mm and 30 mm.

[0076] In some embodiments, one or both panes are laminated glass, providing enhanced durability and sound-dampening properties. The laminate may be adapted to further limit sunlight permeability in areas not covered by the solar cell zones. An alternative or additional means of improving noise attenuation is to vary the thickness of the two panes.

[0077] Acoustic mitigation properties

[0078] The fence according to the invention may also be configured to attenuate airborne noise. This may be achieved by using laminated glass, variable thicknesses of the panes, inclusion of gas-filled or evacuated spaces, or embedding sound-dampening interlayers. The fence may be designed to provide a noise reduction of at least 10 dB, measured at a distance of one meter on the leeward side.

[0079] Adjustability and orientation features

[0080] The glass elements may be mounted at a non-vertical angle relative to the underlayer in order to optimize light exposure and minimize shading of the planted area. Furthermore, the density or distribution of zones may be adjusted based on the geographical orientation of the fence, so that more light is transmitted where plant growth demands higher irradiance.

[0081] The fence system may also be constructed using removable or replaceable glass elements. These can be selected based on crop type, seasonal solar angles, or prevailing wind conditions, enabling flexible adaptation to the needs of specific planting environments.

[0082] Definition and Construction of Zones

[0083] In the context of the invention, the zones are defined as discrete regions within the glass elements that are configured to impede sunlight permeability. Each zone comprises one or more bifacial solar cells arranged in a predefined pattern. The zones may have various geometric shapes, including oblong, square, rectangular, or irregular polygonal forms, and may be distributed uniformly or with intentional gradients across the surface of the glass element. The arrangement may follow a regular grid or be varied in density depending on the optical and energy-generating requirements of the application. The solar cells used in the zones are preferably thin-film or crystalline bifacial cells capable of absorbing light from both the front and rear surfaces. Each zone may optionally be bordered or encapsulated by a transparent or semi-transparent laminate to ensure mechanical protection and environmental sealing.

[0084] Sunlight permeability - measurement method

[0085] The total sunlight permeability of each glass element is defined as the proportion of incident solar radiation that passes through the entire element, including both the transparent regions and the zones. This property may be measured under standardized conditions using a solar simulator in accordance with recognized optical test protocols, such as ISO 9050 or ASTM E903. The permeability value is preferably reported as a percentage of total solar irradiance (W / m2), though it may also be characterized in terms of Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) when evaluating plant growth effects. The stated range of 5-45% is intended to balance adequate light penetration for crops with efficient energy capture by the solar cells. Variations in angle of incidence and environmental reflectivity may also be considered when determining effective transmissivity in real-world agricultural settings.

[0086] Noise attenuation - structural and functional aspects

[0087] In some embodiments, the fence is configured to provide noise attenuation in addition to wind protection. Noise reduction is achieved through the use of laminated glass panes, gas-filled interlayers, or varying thicknesses of the glass panes in each element. Laminated glass may include interlayers of polyvinyl butyral (PVB) or ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVA), which contribute to sound dampening by absorbing vibrational energy. Alternatively, the space between panes may be filled with noble gases such as argon or krypton, which provide acoustic insulation due to their density and molecular properties. Dissimilar pane thicknesses disrupt resonance and further improve sound transmission loss. The fence may achieve a noise reduction of at least 10 dB, as measured on the leeward side of the fence at a distance of 1 meter, using standard acoustic test methods, such as ISO 10140 or ASTM E90. This feature is particularly advantageous in agricultural areas near roads, machinery, or other noise sources that may interfere with pollinator activity or plant physiology.

[0088] Modular and replaceable glass elements

[0089] In one or more embodiments, the fence comprises modular glass elements that are designed to be removable and replaceable. This allows the fence to be adapted to specific agricultural conditions, such as changing crop types, seasonal variations in sunlight angle, or differing wind exposures. Each glass element may be mounted into the vertical posts using sliding channels, locking frames, or mechanical brackets that enable secure yet reversible installation.

[0090] The modular design ensures ease of maintenance and the possibility of upgrading specific panels to meet evolving agronomic or environmental requirements. Preferably, the system maintains weather resistance and structural integrity upon replacement of individual panels, with sealing components such as gaskets or compression fittings used to prevent water ingress or movement of the glass during wind loading.

[0091] Electrical integration for energy supply

[0092] The bifacial solar cells integrated into the zones are electrically interconnected and configured to supply power for on-site agricultural systems. These may include, but are not limited to, irrigation controllers, environmental monitoring sensors, precision agriculture modules, or energy storage systems. The solar cells may be connected in series, parallel, or a hybrid configuration depending on the desired voltage and current output. Power may be routed through integrated conductors embedded within the glass or frame and then conveyed to nearby agricultural infrastructure via buried cables or conduit housed within the vertical support elements.

[0093] Optional components may include microinverters, charge controllers, or battery storage units to ensure stable energy delivery. This integrated energy capability enhances the autonomy and sustainability of agricultural operations using the invention. Non-vertical mounting and orientation optimization

[0094] In one or more embodiments, the glass elements are mounted at a non-vertical angle relative to the underlayer, allowing optimization of solar angle and reduction of unwanted shading effects. The tilt angle may vary depending on latitude, season, and crop type, and may range between 5° and 30° from the vertical. This configuration allows for more effective capture of solar radiation during low-angle sunlight hours and can help regulate shadow length to minimize light obstruction on nearby crops. The non- vertical mounting may also assist in rainwater runoff and reduce dust accumulation, further improving solar panel efficiency. Structural support for the angled mounting may be provided by inclined frame profiles or adjustable brackets integrated into the vertical support posts.

[0095] Examples and figures

[0096] The following are non-limiting examples of embodiments which are covered by the general concept.

[0097] Figure 1 shows a preferred configuration of a fence (a section thereof) according to the invention, incorporating several types of zones (e.g., oblong and square). The fence is configured as a wind fence to protect a field and comprises multiple glass elements mounted between vertical elements, which are in turn mounted in the underlayer. Each glass element includes zones that impede sunlight permeability, with each zone containing one or more bifacial solar cells (see also Figure 2). The leftmost glass element has four oblong zones distributed across most of its surface, resulting in a total sunlight permeability of 23%. The rightmost element contains 32 square zones, resulting in 41% permeability. The central element features rectangular zones with a total permeability of 33%.

[0098] The vertical elements are securely mounted into the ground to ensure stability in strong wind conditions. Bottom plates are positioned beneath the glass elements to achieve a tight seal against uneven terrain. The plates may be perforated to allow wind pressure equalization while still limiting the propagation of sound waves. Alternatively, or in addition, the bottom plates may include openings to allow passage for small animals. Both the vertical elements and the bottom plates should be sufficiently heavy and designed to contribute to noise reduction. For example, the vertical elements may be C-shaped and joined by screws and nuts, allowing the glass elements to be inserted from above.

[0099] Figure 2 illustrates a cross-section of a vertical element in which two glass elements are mounted on either side. Each glass element comprises a first glass layer with a thickness of 3 mm, a second glass layer of 5 mm, and a third plate situated within the interstitial space to which the zones are affixed using adhesive. The zones include bifacial solar cells. The third plate, shown with a thickness of 4 mm, serves both as a mounting substrate for the solar cells and as a noise barrier. The ends of the structure are sealed with butyl rubber, which ensures tightness and allows for thermal expansion. Spacers may be used to maintain uniform spacing between the layers. The frame profile housing the glass element is preferably made of aluminum and contains a core material that is both thermally and acoustically insulating, such as foamed polyurethane.

[0100] Figure 3 shows an additional configuration of a wind fence. Four entire glass elements are mounted between vertical elements, with two types of zone patterns represented. The two leftmost glass elements have five oblong zones each and a total sunlight permeability of 23%. The two rightmost elements feature 36 square zones and a permeability of 35%. These rightmost elements are identical in construction but rotated 180 degrees relative to each other. One element has a higher density of zones at the top, resulting in greater light permeability near the bottom, while the neighboring element is reversed, providing varied light exposure.

Claims

Claims1. A fence (1) for the protection of a planted area, which fence (1) comprises the following:- a plurality of glass elements (2);- a plurality of vertical elements (3) or posts configured for mounting in or on an underlayer (4) and supporting the glass elements (2); wherein each glass element (2) comprises one or more zones (5) configured to impede sunlight permeability; characterized in that each zone (5) comprises one or more bifacial solar cells, and wherein the total sunlight permeability through each glass element (2) is within the range of 5-45%.

2. The fence (1) according to claim 1, wherein said zones (5) occupy between 55% and 95% of the surface area of each glass element (2).

3. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 2, characterized in that each glass element (2) comprises: i) a first glass pane (9) with a front surface and an opposite back surface; ii) a second glass pane (15) with a front surface and an opposite back surface; wherein the first glass pane (9) and the second glass pane (15) are arranged in relation to each other such that a space (12,14) is formed between them and that their back surfaces face each other.

4. The fence (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the space (12,14) is evacuated such that a vacuum is formed therein.

5. The fence (1) according to claim 3, characterized in that the space (12,14) is filled with argon, krypton, or xenon.

6. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 5, characterized in that the mutual distance between the first glass pane (9) and the second glass pane (15) varies between 1 and 10 mm.

7. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 6, characterized in that the thickness of the first glass pane (9) and the second glass pane (15) varies between 2 and 10 mm.

8. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 3 to 7, characterized in that the thicknesses of the first glass pane (9) and the second glass pane (15) are different from each other.

9. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that at least a part of said glass elements is constructed such that said zones (5) have a higher density in an upper part of the glass element (2) compared to a lower part of the glass element (2).

10. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 8, characterized in that at least a part of said glass elements is constructed such that said zones (5) have a higher density in a lower part of the glass element (2) compared to an upper part of the glass element (2).

11. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10, characterized in that it is installed as a wind fence adjacent to a planted area, preferably a field.

12. A planted area, preferably a field, at least partially delimited by a fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

13. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the glass elements (2) are configured to attenuate airborne noise, optionally by incorporating laminated glass, varying pane thickness, or including sound-damping interlayers.

14. The fence (1) according to claim 13, wherein the fence (1) provides a noise reduction of at least 10 dB as measured at a distance of 1 meter on the leeward side of the fence.

15. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 14, wherein the glass elements (2) are mounted at a non-vertical angle relative to the underlayer (4) to optimize light exposure and minimize shading on the planted area.

16. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 15, wherein the density or distribution of zones (5) is adjusted based on the geographical orientation of the fence (1), such that more light is transmitted where plant growth requires higher irradiance.

17. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 16, wherein the bifacial solar cells are configured to supply energy to a systemselected from: an irrigation controller, an environmental sensor system, or a precision agriculture module within the planted area.

18. The fence (1) according to any one of claims 1 to 17, wherein the glass elements (2) are removable or replaceable and are selected based on crop type, seasonal solar angle, or wind intensity.

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