System and method for aeroponics growth

Abstract

An aeroponics system includes a chamber includes a top side having a plurality of vegetation apertures, each vegetation aperture of the plurality of vegetation apertures being configured to receive and maintain a respective vegetation stem during a growth timeline. Each respective vegetation stem has a root that grows and extends into a root-depth section. The chamber further includes a pump system located near a bottom side within the chamber, and an irrigation manifold that is located within the chamber. The irrigation manifold is in fluid communication with and extends from the pump system towards the top side of the chamber. The irrigation manifold is separated from the top side by the root-depth section.

Description

SYSTEM AND METHOD FOR AEROPONICS GROWTHCROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

[0001] This application claims the benefit of, and priority to, U.S. Provisional Patent Application No. 63 / 686,641 filed on August 23, 2024, which is hereby incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0002] The present invention relates generally to aeroponics growth, and more specifically, to individual chambers for aeroponics cultivation of vegetation.BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0003] Hydroponics is a method of growing crops without the use of soil or other substrate. The crops are grown with the roots exposed to a nutrient solution that is added to water and which is applied directly to the roots. The hydroponics method uses less water than traditional farming and allow plants to be grown indoors, away from detrimental elements and contamination.

[0004] Traditional aeroponics is a subset of hydroponic growing. In traditional aeroponics, plants are grown with their roots dangling in the air. Thus, while hydroponics require submersing the roots in water, permanently or intermittently, traditional aeroponics provide an environment in which the roots are grown in an air or mist environment. In other words, the roots are suspended in the air and are misted or sprayed periodically with a nutrient solution or aerosol of a nutrient solution. Traditional aeroponics has been used typically for edible plants, including lettuce, leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and small peppers. Traditional aeroponics has also been used for non-perennial or annual plants with a short life span. Traditional aeroponics has also been particularly successful for growing Cannabis.

[0005] However, traditional aeroponics is plagued with many problems. For example, traditional commercial aeroponics has been unable to grow Mediterranean plants or trees successfully in a commercially viable fashion. In other examples, traditional commercial aeroponics are only able to achieve very small roots, with chambers for roots in the range of about 6-8 inches deep. The roots are always wet, because the chambers are short and poorly drained, and are in contact with a nutrient solution, causing root rotting, among other problems.

[0006] Yet another problem with traditional commercial aeroponics is that multiple4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTchambers share a central nutrient solution chamber and a central pump system for irrigation. As a result, the nutrient solution is shared and recycled continuously, which increases exponentially the risk of cross-contamination to a huge number of plants. Moreover, if the pump system fails, the whole commercial aeroponics module is affected and thousands of plants die in a short period of time, e.g., typically within two to six hours.

[0007] Further problems with traditional commercial aeroponics are directed to maintenance and lighting issues. Complex maintenance and deep cleaning of the entire system requires time-consuming disassembly. As such, traditional commercial aeroponics are plagued with hard to clean and non-sanitized parts. Commercial lighting is placed too close to the plant canopy and is not adjustable. This limits the space for the plant canopy to grow, exposing the plants to a large amount of heat generated by the lighting system and the plants, themselves.

[0008] The present disclosure provides a solution for these and other problems.SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0009] The term embodiment and like terms, e.g., implementation, configuration, aspect, example, and option, are intended to refer broadly to all of the subject matter of this disclosure and the claims below. Statements containing these terms should be understood not to limit the subject matter described herein or to limit the meaning or scope of the claims below. Embodiments of the present disclosure covered herein are defined by the claims below, not this summary. This summary is a high-level overview of various aspects of the disclosure and introduces some of the concepts that are further described in the Detailed Description section below. This summary is not intended to identify key or essential features of the claimed subject matter. This summary is also not intended to be used in isolation to determine the scope of the claimed subject matter. The subject matter should be understood by reference to appropriate portions of the entire specification of this disclosure, any or all drawings, and each claim.

[0010] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, an aeroponics system includes a chamber having a top side and a bottom side. The top side has a plurality of vegetation apertures, each vegetation aperture of the plurality of vegetation apertures being configured to receive and maintain a respective vegetation stem during a growth timeline. Each respective vegetation stem has a root that grows and extends into a root-depth section. The chamber further includes a pump system located near the bottom side within the chamber, and an irrigation manifold located within the chamber. The irrigation manifold is in fluid communication with and extends from the pump system towards the top side of the chamber.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTThe irrigation manifold is separated from the top side by the root-depth section.

[0011] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the top side is in the form of a growth chamber lid in which one or more of the plurality vegetation apertures includes a stem-holding disc.

[0012] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the stemholding disc is made in part or entirely of a silicone material.According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the pump system includes a pump filter attached to an inlet of a submersible pump.

[0013] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the pump system includes two submersible pumps. A first pump of the two submersible pumps is a primary pump. A second pump of the two submersible pumps is a redundant pump configured to operate when the first pump fails.

[0014] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the aeroponics system also includes a fill system disposed in the chamber, the fill system including a float valve that is configured to control an amount of flow of a growth media into the chamber.

[0015] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the aeroponics system further includes a growth media in the chamber.

[0016] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the growth media is in liquid form and completely submerses the pump system.

[0017] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the irrigation manifold is mounted to the pump system via a stem pipe.

[0018] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, the aeroponics system also includes a floating barrier that attaches around the stem pipe and is configured to float in a growth media in the chamber, the floating barrier configured to prevent the root of each vegetation stem from soaking in the growth media.

[0019] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the irrigation manifold includes at least one sprayer through which an irrigation fluid is sprayed towards the root-depth section.

[0020] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the irrigation manifold includes a plurality of sprayers arranged in parallel rows.

[0021] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, multiple sprayers are in each row of the parallel rows.

[0022] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the at least4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTone sprayer is in the form of a micro-sprayer that rotates in a 360° spray pattern.

[0023] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the rootdepth section accommodates roots with a root depth greater than about 10 inches.

[0024] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the rootdepth section accommodates roots with the root depth of at least about 36 inches.

[0025] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the rootdepth section accommodates roots with the root depth in the range of at least about 36 inches to about 60 inches.

[0026] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the aeroponics system includes a lighting system positioned above the top side, the lighting system being adjustable relative to the top side.

[0027] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system describe above, Quillaja saponaria trees are received in each of the plurality of vegetation apertures.

[0028] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system describe above, the Quillaja saponaria trees are more than 2 years old.

[0029] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, an aeroponics system is directed to growing vegetation and includes a structural rack having a holding base. The aeroponics system further includes a plurality of individual chambers positioned on the holding base of the structural rack. Each individual chamber of the plurality of individual chambers has a top side and a bottom side. Each individual chamber includes a plurality of stem-holding discs configured to receive a respective vegetation stem during a growth timeline. Each, respective, vegetation stem has a root that grows and extends in a root-depth section between the top side and the bottom side. Each individual chamber further includes at least one individual pump located adjacent to the bottom side, and an irrigation manifold in fluid communication with the at least one individual pump. The irrigation manifold extends from the pump towards the root-depth section.

[0030] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the aeroponics system further includes a lighting system that is adjustable relative to the plurality of individual chambers.

[0031] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the rootdepth section accommodates roots in the range of at least about 36 inches to about 60 inches.

[0032] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the irrigation manifold includes a plurality of sprayers arranged in an array configuration.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT

[0033] According to certain aspects of the aeroponics system described above, the at least one individual pump includes a pump filter attached to an inlet of the at least one individual pump.

[0034] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, each individual chamber further includes a fill system disposed in the individual chamber, the fill system including a float valve that is configured to control an amount of flow of a growth media into the individual chamber.

[0035] According to certain aspects of the present disclosure, each individual chamber further includes a floating barrier that attaches around a portion of the irrigation manifold and is configured to float in a growth media in the chamber, the floating barrier configured to prevent the root of each vegetation stem from soaking in the growth media.

[0036] According to other aspects of the present disclosure, an aeroponics system is directed to growing Quillaja saponaria trees and includes a lighting system configured to adjust in a vertical direction. The aeroponics system further includes a plurality of individual chambers positioned below the lighting system to receive light emitted from the lighting system. Each individual chamber of the plurality of individual chambers includes a root-depth section located below a top side and a plurality of stem-holding discs mounted in the top side and configured to receive a respective Quillaja saponaria tree. Each individual chamber further includes at least one pump located adjacent to a bottom side, and an irrigation manifold that is in fluid communication with the pump. The irrigation manifold extends from the at least one pump towards the root-depth section between the top side and the bottom side.

[0037] The above summary is not intended to represent each embodiment or every aspect of the present disclosure. Rather, the foregoing summary merely provides an example of some of the novel aspects and features set forth herein. The above features and advantages, and other features and advantages of the present disclosure, will be readily apparent from the following detailed description of representative embodiments and modes for carrying out the present invention, when taken in connection with the accompanying drawings and the appended claims. Additional aspects of the disclosure will be apparent to those of ordinary skill in the art in view of the detailed description of various embodiments, which is made with reference to the drawings, a brief description of which is provided below.BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0038] The disclosure, and its advantages and drawings, will be better understood from the4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTfollowing description of representative embodiments together with reference to the accompanying drawings. These drawings depict only representative embodiments and are therefore not to be considered as limitations on the scope of the various embodiments or claims.

[0039] FIG. 1 A is a perspective view illustrating an aeroponics system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0040] FIG. IB is a schematic view of an exemplary fill system for a chamber, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0041] FIG. 2 is a perspective view illustrating a covered chamber for the aeroponics system of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0042] FIG. 3 is a perspective view illustrating an uncovered chamber for the aeroponics system of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0043] FIG. 4 is a top view illustrating a lid for the aeroponics system of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0044] FIG. 5 is a perspective view illustrating a stem-holding disc for the aeroponics system of FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0045] FIG. 6 is a top perspective view illustrating an irrigation module positioned within a chamber of the aeroponics system shown in FIG. 1, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0046] FIG. 7 is a side perspective view illustrating the irrigation module of FIG. 6, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0047] FIG. 8A is a top view illustrating an irrigation manifold of the irrigation module shown in FIG. 6, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0048] FIG. 8B is a top view illustrating an exemplary floating barrier, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0049] FIG. 8C is a top view illustrating the exemplary floating barrier shown in FIG. 8B installed in a chamber, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0050] FIG. 9 is a perspective view illustrating a sprayer of the irrigation manifold shown in FIG. 8, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0051] FIG. 10 is a perspective view illustrating a pipe of the irrigation module shown in FIG. 6, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0052] FIG. 11A is a perspective view illustrating an exemplary pump of the irrigation module shown in FIG. 6, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0053] FIG. 1 IB is a perspective view illustrating another exemplary pump of the irrigation4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTmodule shown in FIG. 6, shown with a disassembled pump filter, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0054] FIG. 11C is a perspective view illustrating the pump of FIG. 11B, shown attached to an assembled pump filter, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure

[0055] FIG. 12 is a perspective view illustrating an aeroponics system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0056] FIG. 13 A is an image illustrating plants grown with a hydroponic system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0057] FIG. 13B is an image illustrating plants grown with the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0058] FIG. 13C is a table illustrating differences between the hydroponic-grown plants of FIG. 13 A and the aeroponic-grown plants of FIG. 13B.

[0059] FIG. 14A is an image illustrating leaves grown with a hydroponic system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0060] FIG. 14B is an image illustrating leaves grown with the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0061] FIG. 15A is an image of a leaf grown with a hydroponic system, according to one embodiment of the present disclosure.

[0062] FIG. 15B is an image of a leaf grown with the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0063] FIG. 15C is a plot illustrating results from growing the leaf of FIG. 15 A.

[0064] FIG. 15D is a plot illustrating results from growing the leaf of FIG. 15B.

[0065] FIG. 15E is a plot illustrating growth conditions differences between the leaves ofFIGs. 15A and 15B.

[0066] FIG. 16A is a plot illustrating chlorophyll content in growth conditions differences between growing plants with a hydroponic system and the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0067] FIG. 16B is a plot illustrating nitrogen content in growth conditions differences between growing plants with a hydroponic system and the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0068] FIG. 16C is a plot illustrating effect of temperature in growth conditions differences between growing plants with a hydroponic system and the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT

[0069] FIG. 17A shows sparse foliage density resulting from a traditional aeroponics system.

[0070] FIG. 17B shows dense foliage density resulting from the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0071] FIG. 17C shows poor root growth resulting from a traditional aeroponics system.

[0072] FIG. 17D shows robust root growth resulting from the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0073] FIG. 18A is a plot illustrating differences in the number of leaves resulting from soil-based cultivation and cultivation from the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0074] FIG. 18B is a plot illustrating differences in the number of branches resulting from soil-based cultivation and cultivation from the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0075] FIG. 18C is a plot illustrating differences in plant height resulting from soil-based cultivation and cultivation with the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.

[0076] FIG. 19 is a table illustrating differences in parameters between soil-based cultivation and cultivation with the aeroponics system of the present disclosure.DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0077] Various embodiments are described with reference to the attached figures, where like reference numerals are used throughout the figures to designate similar or equivalent elements. The figures are not necessarily drawn to scale and are provided merely to illustrate aspects and features of the present disclosure. Numerous specific details, relationships, and methods are set forth to provide a full understanding of certain aspects and features of the present disclosure, although one having ordinary skill in the relevant art will recognize that these aspects and features can be practiced without one or more of the specific details, with other relationships, or with other methods. In some instances, well-known structures or operations are not shown in detail for illustrative purposes. The various embodiments disclosed herein are not necessarily limited by the illustrated ordering of acts or events, as some acts may occur in different orders and / or concurrently with other acts or events. Furthermore, not all illustrated acts or events are necessarily required to implement certain aspects and features of the present disclosure.

[0078] For purposes of the present detailed description, unless specifically disclaimed, and where appropriate, the singular includes the plural and vice versa. The word “including” means “including without limitation.” Moreover, words of approximation, such as “about,” “almost,”4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT“substantially,” “approximately,” and the like, can be used herein to mean “at,” “near,” “nearly at,” “within 3-5% of,” “within acceptable manufacturing tolerances of,” or any logical combination thereof. Similarly, terms “vertical” or “horizontal” are intended to additionally include “within 3-5% of’ a vertical or horizontal orientation, respectively. Additionally, words of direction, such as “top,” “bottom,” “left,” “right,” “above,” and “below” are intended to relate to the equivalent direction as depicted in a reference illustration; as understood contextually from the object(s) or element(s) being referenced, such as from a commonly used position for the object(s) or element(s); or as otherwise described herein.

[0079] Generally, the present disclosure is related to an aeroponics system and method that promotes robust vegetative growth of woody plants. For example, the vegetative growth includes sclerophyllous trees or shrubs that are typical of a Mediterranean climate. In another example, the vegetative growth includes plants or trees with the purpose of generating biomass that contains high value chemicals, fruit, or flower production under Controlled Environment Agricultural practices (“CEA”).

[0080] Fruit production of citrus, olives, grapes, figs, and other fruits may be grown with the disclosed aeroponics system and method under CEA conditions without soil or solid or semi-solid substrate. Flowers from woody plants such as roses, lavender, camellias, etc., can also be cultivated with the disclosed aeroponics system and method. The disclosed aeroponics system and method can also be used to cultivate tuberous plants, including potatoes, sweet potatoes, and other tubers of agricultural use for food production. In general, and by way of example, any plant of commercial value that is known to require a sandy well-drained soil would be able to thrive in the disclosed aeroponics system of cultivation.

[0081] The disclosed aeroponics system and method is particularly suited for long-term cultivation of perennial woody plants that can generate a biomass harvest in the form of fruits, flowers, trimmed branches, leaves, and sap. The disclosed aeroponics system and method involves improved aeroponic cultivation of such plants in chambers or vessels with an appropriate height, thereby allowing the roots to be suspended in the air, without a substrate support. The roots of the plant in the disclosed aeroponics system remain airborne with continuous downward draining by gravity of any liquid applied during intermittent irrigation. Because the roots are airborne, the flow of oxygen supporting root metabolism is unlimited and unimpeded, in contrast to typical conditions present when the root mass is embedded within soil during traditional cultivation methods or within artificial or natural soil-like substrates commonly used in current commercial hydroponics systems.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT

[0082] The continuous contact with air vs soil (or substrates) is a major difference between traditional aeroponics and traditional hydroponics. In traditional aeroponics, roots are not submerged in water or nutrient solutions. However, because shallow chambers are used in traditional aeroponics, roots remain waterlogged and are, thus, susceptible to fungal infections commonly known as “root rot.” In contrast, the disclosed aeroponics system and method favor complete drainage of the roots such that the roots are never waterlogged. Furthermore, the disclosed aeroponics system supply the roots with either water or certain water-dissolved fertilizers at predetermined intermittent cycles, thus providing water and nutrients to the entire plant through the root system.

[0083] The cultivation chambers in the disclosed aeroponics system can hold one or more plants or trees (e.g., 100 plants), allowing for high densities of growth and for continuous and intensive cultivation. The roots inside the chambers are suspended vertically to ensure drainage of irrigated liquids by gravity. The chambers are also fitted with spray nozzles that are connected to a piping or tubing system delivering pressurized fluid spray. The tubing pipes originate from a liquid reservoir at the bottom of the chamber, being positioned inside the same chamber below the roots.

[0084] Each chamber has a suitable submerged pump to propel the fluid through the tubing. The chamber has a longitudinal vertical design allowing for water and nutrients to remain below the space where the roots are suspended and airborne. The root mass returns unused nutrients to the reservoir below by gradually dripping the liquid not absorbed during the OFF intervals where the irrigation does not occur. For example, an OFF interval is configured to last 60 seconds.

[0085] These chambers (also referred-to individually as an “AeroStemix single module”) are individual cultivation units that do not share the same space with roots or nutrients from adjacent chambers. The chambers containing the plants can be deployed in multiples consisting of a cluster of chambers adjacent to each other and sharing a room environment. However, each chamber maintains physical and functional independence from the other chambers in the room.

[0086] Thus, the disclosed aeroponics system consists of a series of individual modules or chambers in which vegetation, such as plants, is grown. Based on the modularity, the disclosed aeroponics system is easily scalable depending the number of individual modules deployed to achieve a particular biomass output goal.

[0087] The chamber units are autonomous and are desirable also in achieving isolation of4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTthe roots, which provides a degree of protection from pathogens, such as fungal or viral infectious agents, secreted plant bioactive products, or contaminating toxic substances that may be present in the water and nutrient mixture. Alternatively, a cluster of chambers may share a liquid reservoir and pump irrigation network providing intermittent irrigation to a predetermined number of chambers (e.g., two or more) representing a cluster unit or module of variable size (also referred-to as an “AeroStemix cluster module”). As an exemplary technical advantage, the disclosed aeroponics system and method allows for the first time, cultivation of perennial sclerophyllous trees or other similar woody plants in an enclosed controlled environment. The disclosed aeroponics system and method allows for continuous, recurring harvesting biomass from roots or the canopy of such trees or shrubs.

[0088] For example, trees that have been currently grown to at least 2-3 years old continue to grow and yield biomass from Quillaja saponaria. The biomass from Quillaja saponaria results in a very high value ingredient for vaccines. Quillaja saponaria Molina adjuvants isolated from this aeroponically-grown biomass exhibits a different chemical composition than adjuvants isolated from Quillaia trees (e.g., mature trees grown in soil). Accordingly, Quillaja saponaria Molina adjuvants isolated from this aeroponically-grown biomass are structurally unique and distinguishable from existing adjuvant formulations and natural products.

[0089] Referring to FIG. 1A, an aeroponics system 100 includes a chamber 102 in which vegetation 104 is cultivated. In the illustrated example, a plurality of plants 104 is cultivated. In other examples, the cultivation includes other types of vegetation 104, such as trees. The plants 104 have foliage 106 that grows above the chamber 102 to form a canopy, and roots 108 that grow within the chamber 102. The roots 108 grow suspended in air within the chamber 102, extending as they grow towards an irrigation module 132.

[0090] The aeroponics system 100 is configured to grow roots 108 with a root depth R greater than about 10 inches, and preferably at least about 16 inches. Preferably, yet, the range of the root depth R is in the range of at least about 36 inches to about 60 inches.

[0091] The aeroponics system 100 further includes a lighting system 110 positioned above the chamber 102. The lighting system 110 is adjustable relative to the chamber 102 along a height Hl. The lighting system 110 emits controlled, adjustable, heat 112 towards the plants 104 for fostering the growth of the plants 104.

[0092] The aeroponics system 100 further includes a growth media 113 at the bottom of the chamber 102. The growth media 113, also referred to as a nutrient or fertigation solution, provides nutrition for the plants 104, facilitating the growth of the plants 104. According to4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTone example, the growth media 113 has a capacity of 30 liters.

[0093] Referring to FIG. IB, in an embodiment, a fill system 160 includes a float valve 162 installed within the chamber 102. The fill system further includes an inlet pipe 164 and a nozzle 166. The float valve 162 is in fluid communication with a supply line 168 disposed through a wall 170 of the chamber 102. The float valve 162 controls an amount of flow of the growth media 113 into the chamber 102. The float valve 162 is installed at a desired height to fill the chamber 102 to a predetermined level shown by the dashed line 172. In an embodiment, filling the chamber 102 to the predetermined level shown by the dashed line 172 results in a volume of about 30 liters of growth media 113 in the chamber 102.

[0094] In an embodiment, a male quick disconnect (not shown) is fitted on an end of the supply line 168 to facilitate an easy and quick connection between the supply line 168 and the fill system 160. The fill system 160 system improves the efficiency of the filling and periodic (for example, weekly) re-filling of the chamber 102. In operation, an operator connects the supply line 168, opens an upstream valve (not shown) on the supply line 168, and the chamber 102 will be filled to the desired predetermined level 172. In an embodiment, all of the chambers 102 in a cluster, or that are part of any plurality of chambers 102, can each be connected to a supply line 168 that is manifolded together with other supply lines 168 and fed through a common upstream valve. Such an arrangement automatically connecting all the chambers 102 to a common supply line manifold keeps the growth media 113 in all of the chambers 102 filled to the desired predetermined level 172.

[0095] Referring to FIG. 2, the chamber 102 has a top side 114 and a container 116. According to one example, the top side 114 is in the form of a lid (also referred to as a growth chamber lid) that covers the container 116 partially or entirely. In FIG. 2, the lid 114 is illustrated covering the container 116 entirely.

[0096] Referring to FIG. 3, the container 116 has an internal space 118 with an open end 120 and a bottom side 122 that forms a closed end. Between the open end 120, which in FIG. 2 is covered with the lid 114, and the bottom side 122, the container 116 has a root-depth section 124 in which the roots 108 extend to grow. According to one example, the container 116 has a width W1 of about 18.5 inches, a depth DI of about 10.5 inches, and a height H2 of about 27 inches.

[0097] Referring to FIG. 4, the lid 114 has a plurality of vegetation apertures 126 configured to receive and maintain a respective plant 104 during a growth timeline. The vegetation apertures 126 are illustrated having a generally circular form. However, in4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTalternative embodiments the vegetation apertures 126 have other shapes configured to facilitate the growth of a respective plant 104. In yet other alternative embodiments, one or more of the vegetation apertures 126 have a different shape or size than at least one other one of the vegetation apertures 126.

[0098] Optionally, the lid 114 has a rectangular form with a depth D2 and a width W2. According to one example, the lid 114 is a square having a 19.5 inch depth D2 and a 19.5 inch width W2.

[0099] The vegetation apertures 126 are optionally arranged in an array of rows along the depth D2 and columns along the width W2. (e.g., an array of 7 rows x 7 columns). According to one example, the lid 114 has 49 vegetation apertures 126, with each vegetation apertures 126 having approximately a 2-inch diameter. According to another example, two vegetation apertures 126 are used when growing lemon trees. The number of the vegetation apertures 126 is determined based on the respective trees or woody plants that require cultivation.

[0100] Referring to FIG. 5, a stem-holding disc 128 is configured for insertion into a respective vegetation aperture 126 (shown in FIG. 4). The stem-holding disc 128 has, optionally, a circular shape with a central hole 130. According to one example, the stemholding disc 128 has a diameter sized to fit in a 2-inch aperture 126.

[0101] The stem-holding disc 128 holds in place a respective plant 104, which grows through the central hole 130. More specifically, the stem-holding discs 128 holds in place a respective stem of the plant 104 (i.e., a vegetation stem). The stem-holding disc 128 is generally defined by a disc diameter and a height H3. According to one example, the stemholding disc 128 is made in part or entirely of a silicone material. According to another example, the central hole 130 has a diameter in the range of about 1 / 8 of an inch to about 3 / 8 of an inch.

[0102] Referring to FIGs. 6 and 7, an irrigation module 132 (shown within the chamber 102 in FIG. 6) has an irrigation manifold 134 that is in fluid communication with a pump 136. The irrigation manifold 134 extends from the pump 136 via a stem pipe 138. The irrigation manifold 134 is configured with a plurality of sprayers 140 that spray a mist 142 (see FIGs. 1 and 7) towards the roots 108 located in the root-depth section 124.

[0103] Referring to FIG. 8 A, the irrigation manifold 134 optionally has a rectangular form containing a plurality of rows and columns. For example, the irrigation manifold 134 has an array of rows along the depth D3 and columns along the width W3 (e.g., an array of 3 rows x 2 columns). Each row and column is configured for fluidic internal flow to facilitate irrigation4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTvia the sprayers 140. Each row and column includes multiple sprayers 140, which are optionally positioned equidistant from each other along the respective row or column. According to one example, the irrigation manifold 134 is a square that has a 14.5 inch depth D3 and a 14.5 inch width W3.

[0104] Referring to FIGs. 8B and 8C, in an embodiment, an anti-root-rot floating barrier 180 includes a sheet 182 of floating material having a hole 184 disposed through a center of the sheet 182, and a slit 186 cut through the sheet 182 between the hole 184 and an edge. For example, the sheet 182 can be made from bubble insulating material. The hole 184 is large enough to accommodate the stem pipe 138 that goes from the pump 136 to the irrigation manifold 134, and for example, can be a 2-1 / 2” diameter hole. The slit 186 allows the sheet 182 to be easily set inside the chamber 102 around the stem pipe 138.

[0105] The floating barrier 180 prevents the roots 108 from having direct contact with the growth media 113. When the roots 108 have extended contact with the liquid media 113 they can start to rot, which can eventually kill the plants 104. The floating barrier 180 prevents this contact, keeping the roots 108 with adequate moisture from the irrigation manifold 134 without being soaked by the growth media 113.

[0106] Referring to FIG. 9, the sprayer 140 is in the form of a rotatable micro-sprayer. According to one embodiment, the sprayer 140 rotates in a 360° spray pattern.

[0107] Referring to FIG. 10, the stem pipe 138 is generally cylindrical and extends along a pipe axis Al. The stem pipe 138 has a height H4 and an external diameter, with an internal fluidic space for facilitating irrigation flow between the pump 136 and the irrigation manifold 134. According to one example, the stem pipe 138 has an external diameter that is about 0.5 inches and a height H4 that is about 15 inches. Optionally, the stem pipe is made partially or entirely of a polycarbonate material or a polyvinyl chloride (PVC) material.

[0108] Referring to FIG. 11 A, the pump 136 has an outflow connector 144 configured for coupling to an end of the stem pipe 138. According to one example, the pump 136 is a submersible pump. Optionally, the pump 136 is completely submersed in the growth media 113 (shown in FIG. 1). According to one example, the pump 136 is a submersible water pump that has an output in the range of about 400 gallons per minute (GPH) to about 600 GPH. According to a further example, the output is about 530 GPH.

[0109] Referring to FIGs. 1 IB and 11C, in an embodiment, the pump 136 includes an inlet pipe 190 that attaches to an anti -clogging pump filter 192. As shown disassembled in FIG. 1 IB, the pump filter 192 includes an elbow 194, a length of straight pipe 196 and a cylindrical sponge4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTfilter 198. The elbow 194 can be, for example, a 16” PVC elbow threaded on one side. The length of straight pipe 196 can be, for example, one 3-1 / 4” section of 16” PVC pipe previously drilled with multiple holes. The cylindrical sponge 198 can be, for example, a cylindrical sponge filter (commercially available) that is slid over the length of straight pipe 196. In other embodiments, the configuration and size of the pump filter 192 can be other than disclosed so long as the growth media 113 gets filtered as it flows from the chamber 102 into the inlet pipe 190 of the pump 136.

[0110] The pump filter 192 is configured to allow the length of straight pipe 196 to be oriented parallel to a bottom of the chamber 102, or to be oriented other than parallel to the bottom of the chamber 102. The pump filter 192 prevents clogging of the sprayers 140 on the irrigation manifold 134 and also improves the efficiency and durability of the pump 136. These factors extend the time between performing full maintenance of the aeroponics system 100. When the pump filter 192 starts to clog it can be switched for a new / clean one in just a few minutes, keeping the performance of the aeroponics system 100 good for longer periods of time.

[0111] Optionally or alternatively, a pump system 150 includes two submersible pumps 136. A first pump 136 of the two submersible pumps 136 is a primary pump that operates to provide the pumping power for the required irrigation. A second pump 136 of the two submersible pumps 136 is a redundant pump configured to operate when the first pump 136 fails.

[0112] Referring to FIG. 12, the aeroponics system 100 is configured to include a plurality of chambers 102. The aeroponics system includes a structural rack 146 having a holding base 148. The chambers 102 are positioned on the holding base 148. The lighting system 110 is adjustable relative to the chambers 102 along the height Hl.

[0113] The aeroponics system 100 disclosed above has numerous benefits and advantages over traditional aeroponics. According to one beneficial example, the aeroponics system 100 includes an individual pump 136 and irrigation manifold 134 for each growth chamber 102. As such, failure of these components will affect a very limited number of plants 104 in a respective chamber 102, while other chambers 102 will remain unaffected.

[0114] In an alternative embodiment, the aeroponics system 100 provides benefits related to redundancy and self-containment. For example, each chamber 102 includes the pump system 150 that is in the form of a double-pump unit (shown in FIG. 11) and that is submerged into the liquid nutrient solution. The pump system 150 includes two pumps 136 that are used4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTto prevent loss of vegetation due to pump failure. As such, the two pumps 136 provide redundancy if one of the pumps 136 fails. Additionally, the pumps 136 are connected to an electronic controlling system 152 (shown in FIG. 1) that is communicatively coupled with and is programmed to turn ON the pumps 136 at pre-set intervals. For example, in a first set of trees 104 the irrigation has a cycle of 15 seconds ON and 180 minutes OFF, while a second set of trees 104 has a cycle of 30 seconds ON and 60 minutes OFF. The cycles are determined through experimental assessment of individual requirements of the grown vegetation, as it is the nutrient solution composition.

[0115] According to another beneficial example, the aeroponics system 100 is conducive for simple, fast maintenance and sanitation. Replacement of failing parts can be done easily and promptly.

[0116] According to yet another beneficial example, potential contamination only affects the plants 104 in a specific chamber 102. Thus, the aeroponics system 100 minimizes risk of the contamination spreading to plants 104 in other chambers 102, such as preventing the spread of root disease (e.g., fungal root rot) or any other cross-contamination through the sharing or recirculating of fluid nutrients with adjacent chambers 102.

[0117] According to yet another beneficial example, the aeroponics system 100 is climate and geographical location independent. The cultivation under CEA implies strict control of light, temperature, relative humidity, and ambient carbon dioxide (CO2). Air can also be filtered through high-efficiency particulate arrestance (HEP A) systems to achieve clean room environment. CEA requires the cultivation to be done indoors in large facilities or sealed greenhouses. However, the aeroponics system 100 (e.g., an AeroStemix chamber system) could also be used outdoors or inside a greenhouse to use sunlight thus in a partial-CEA condition.

[0118] According to yet another beneficial example, the aeroponics system 100 provides intensive cultivation and maximizes space utilization. Vegetation 104 can be cultivated in large numbers by deployment of multiple chambers 102 (or chamber modules) and can be done using horizontal and vertical space with multi-tier rack systems (Vertical Farming) by stacking the vegetation vertically. The stacking allows production of increased biomass in a smaller footprint.

[0119] According to yet another beneficial example, the aeroponics system 100 provides uninterrupted, non-seasonal continuous cultivation and harvesting. Because CEA allows for precise mimicry of seasonal changes and conditions favorable for vegetative growth, flowering,4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTor fruiting, commercial production is sustained and controlled. As result, production is increased in a continuum of artificial but tightly controlled environment and simulation of seasonal conditions.

[0120] According to yet another beneficial example, the aeroponics system 100 provides a cost-effective growing system and method. The cultivation of the vegetation 104 in the system allows for rapid growth of plants (or other vegetation) when compared to plants grown in regular soil but matched in age and conditions. The vegetation grown in the aeroponics system 100 has significantly more branching and leaf density, and reaches at least double height of traditional cultivation (according to some examples). As a result of low nutrient and water usage, continuous growth, and production of biomass with higher yields and a very reduced footprint, the aeroponics system 100 offers a low-cost production and higher yield harvest. In addition, the aeroponics system 100 saves on (e.g., eliminates or reduces) expenses incurred in traditional agriculture for “crop protection.”

[0121] According to yet another beneficial example, the lighting system 110 is adjustable. This provides necessary space for the canopy to grow to a desired size. The lighting adjustability also facilitates heat dissipation.

[0122] According to yet other beneficial examples:• the aeroponics system 100 provides modular cultivation in individual chambers 102;• each chamber 102 contains nutrients and a pumping system to irrigate the roots 108 intermittently;• each chamber 102 is independent of other chambers 102, including adjacent chambers 102;• chambers 102 facilitate high-density cultivation, with each chamber 102 holding a plurality of plants 104 (e.g., one chamber 102 is configured to hold 180 mini -trees per square meter);• the aeroponics system 100 provides water conservation efficiency because it utilizes minima water consumption (e.g., estimated to be 3% or less than the water used in traditional soil cultivation outdoors inside a greenhouse;• the aeroponics system 100 utilizes substantially less water and / or nutrients than traditional hydroponics; and• the aeroponics system 100 eliminates requirement for pesticides, antibiotics, or other toxic chemicals.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT

[0123] Referring generally to FIGs. 13 A-16C, results and comparisons show great benefits and improvements achieved via the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) in comparison to traditional hydroponic growth. Referring specifically to FIGs. 13A-13C, a comparison between aeroponic vs. hydroponic growth conditions shows resulting improvements on overall plant health, as demonstrated in terms of various parameters listed in FIG. 13C. In the illustrated example Quillaja saponaria plants are reared under aeroponic conditions using the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system). Noticeably, the length of the aerial portion of the plants, as well as the foliage density is higher compared to plants grown in a hydroponic environment.

[0124] Referring specifically to FIGs. 14A-14B, growing plants under hydroponic, overwatering conditions results in a typical discoloration or yellowing in the leaves. This discoloration is better known as chlorosis. However, in contrast to the hydroponic leaves, this discoloration is eliminated (or greatly reduced) in leaves from plants grown aeroponically in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system). These observations were documented by quantifying and comparing the pixel density in photographs of leaves obtained from plants grown hydroponically and aeroponically. Whereas leaves from plants grown in hydroponic conditions manifest substantial chlorosis along the leaf tip and edges, leaves from plants reared in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) are largely devoid of any notable chlorotic changes, exhibiting a uniform green coloration throughout the leaf surface.

[0125] Referring specifically to FIGs. 15A-15E, a detailed comparison between leaves illustrated in FIGs. 14A-14B shows the extent of surface chlorosis (in % units). More specifically, the surface chlorosis demonstrates a highly statistically significant (p<0.001, nonparametric Matt- Whitney test) difference between the two growth conditions, in which plants grown hydroponically can show approximately 25% of their surface affected by a chlorotic change, as opposed to <2% in leaves from plants grown under aeroponic conditions via the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system).

[0126] Referring specifically to FIGs. 16A-16C, in accordance with the observations disclosed above (especially in reference to FIGs. 13A-15E), other typical parameters of overall plant health, such as chlorophyll and nitrogen content, also illustrate a beneficial effect of aeroponic growth conditions via the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) compared to a hydroponic environment. Thus, chlorophyll and nitrogen content was much higher in plants grown in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system),4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTwith a highly statistically significant difference (p<0.001) as compared to leaves from plants grown hydroponically. This was particularly noteworthy considering that the same temperature was maintained in both growth conditions.

[0127] Thus, the aeroponic environment conferred by the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) demonstrably provides a substantially healthier and nurturing environment that translates into a more robust foliage and therefore, a higher yield of biomass enriched in saponin content.

[0128] Referring to FIGs. 17A-17D, results and comparisons further show great benefits and improvements achieved via the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) in comparison to traditional aeroponic growth. In traditional aeroponics, plants are grown in an air or mist environment without the use of any substrate, i.e., the plant roots are suspended in the air and are misted or sprayed periodically with a nutrient solution or aerosol of nutrient solution. Conventional aeroponics has been used typically for edible plants, including lettuce, leafy greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and carrots. Traditional aeroponics has also been particularly successful for growing Cannabis. However, until now, there has never been any demonstration that aeroponics can be used to grow Mediterranean plants or trees successfully and in a commercially viable fashion. This is a major advantage of disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system), which allows the growth of high-value edible plant species, such as olives, figs, citrus, as well as Quillaja plants, which are a crucial source of saponins used for vaccine adjuvants. The disclosed aeroponics system 100 is further useful in growing any herbaceous plants and / or perennial woody plants.

[0129] More specifically, a comparison shows Quillaja saponaria grown in a traditional aeroponics platform versus the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system). The comparison demonstrates a substantial advantage of the latter with respect to foliage density, as well as overall root health, physical appearance, length, density, and root rot. For example, FIG. 17A illustrates sparse foliage density of Quillaja saponaria plants that are grown in the traditional aeroponics system, while FIG. 17B illustrates denser foliage density of Quillaja saponaria plants that are grown in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system). In another example, FIG. 17C illustrates poor root growth and presence of root rot in the Quillaja saponaria plants that are grown in the traditional aeroponics system, while FIG. 17D illustrates robust root growth of Quillaja saponaria plants that are grown in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system).

[0130] Referring to FIGs. 18A-18C, growing Mediterranean plants in the disclosed4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPTaeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) also offers a substantial advantage compared to plants traditionally grown in a soil environment. This is reflected by a highly statistically significant increase in the number of leaves, branches, and the height of the aerial part of the plan in Quillaja saponaria grown in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) environment compared to soil after 7 months.

[0131] Referring to FIG. 19, the advantages of FIGs. 18A-18C are also observed in the case of another Mediterranean plant, in this case a Meyer lemon tree. The leaf area and a perimeter of the citrus tree grown in the disclosed aeroponics system 100 (e.g., AeroStemix system) are shown to be substantially higher compared to those from a tree reared in soil. In the particular case of Quillaja saponaria, this is an important advantage because leaves are the major source of saponins in plants grown in a miniaturized fashion. Leaves represent the main tissue representing the bulk of the biomass that is collected at regular intervals to prepare saponin-rich extracts from which specific saponins are purified. For example QS-21 is a high- value saponin extract that has immunoadjuvant activity and that is widely used in some of the most successful commercial vaccines in existence.

[0132] Although the disclosed embodiments have been illustrated and described with respect to one or more implementations, equivalent alterations and modifications will occur or be known to others skilled in the art upon the reading and understanding of this specification and the annexed drawings. In addition, while a particular feature of the invention may have been disclosed with respect to only one of several implementations, such feature may be combined with one or more other features of the other implementations as may be desired and advantageous for any given or particular application.

[0133] While various embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, it should be understood that they have been presented by way of example only, and not limitation. Numerous changes to the disclosed embodiments can be made in accordance with the disclosure herein, without departing from the spirit or scope of the disclosure. Thus, the breadth and scope of the present disclosure should not be limited by any of the above described embodiments. Rather, the scope of the disclosure should be defined in accordance with the following claims and their equivalents.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT

Claims

CLAIMSWhat is claimed is:

1. An aeroponics system comprising: a chamber having a top side and a bottom side, the top side having a plurality of vegetation apertures, each vegetation aperture of the plurality of vegetation apertures being configured to receive and maintain a respective vegetation stem during a growth timeline, each respective vegetation stem having a root that grows and extends into a root-depth section; a pump system located near the bottom side within the chamber; and an irrigation manifold located within the chamber, the irrigation manifold being in fluid communication with and extending from the pump system towards the top side of the chamber, the irrigation manifold being separated from the top side by the root-depth section.

2. The aeroponics system of claim 1, wherein the top side is in the form of a growth chamber lid in which one or more of the plurality vegetation apertures includes a stem-holding disc.

3. The aeroponics system of claim 2, wherein the stem-holding disc is made in part or entirely of a silicone material.

4. The aeroponics system of claim 1, wherein the pump system includes a pump filter attached to an inlet of a submersible pump.

5. The aeroponics system of claim 1, wherein the pump system includes two submersible pumps, a first pump of the two submersible pumps being a primary pump, a second pump of the two submersible pumps being a redundant pump configured to operate when the first pump fails.

6. The aeroponics system of claim 1, further comprising a fill system disposed in the chamber, the fill system including a float valve that is configured to control an amount of flow of a growth media into the chamber.

7. The aeroponics system of claim 1, further comprising a growth media in the chamber.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT8. The aeroponics system of claim 7, wherein the growth media is in liquid form and completely submerses the pump system.

9. The aeroponics system of claim 1, wherein the irrigation manifold is mounted to the pump system via a stem pipe.

10. The aeroponics system of claim 9, further comprising a floating barrier that attaches around the stem pipe and is configured to float in a growth media in the chamber, the floating barrier configured to prevent the root of each vegetation stem from soaking in the growth media.

11. The aeroponics system of claim 1, wherein the irrigation manifold includes at least one sprayer through which an irrigation fluid is sprayed towards the root-depth section.

12. The aeroponics system of claim 11, wherein the irrigation manifold includes a plurality of sprayers arranged in parallel rows.

13. The aeroponics system of claim 12, wherein multiple sprayers are in each row of the parallel rows.

14. The aeroponics system of claim 11, wherein the at least one sprayer being in the form of a micro-sprayer that rotates in a 360° spray pattern.

15. The aeroponics system of claim 1, wherein the root-depth section accommodates roots with a root depth greater than about 10 inches.

16. The aeroponics system of claim 15, wherein the root-depth section accommodates roots with the root depth of at least about 36 inches.

17. The aeroponics system of claim 16, wherein the root-depth section accommodates roots with the root depth in the range of at least about 36 inches to about 60 inches.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT18. The aeroponics system of claim 1, further comprising a lighting system positioned above the top side, the lighting system being adjustable relative to the top side.

19. The aeroponics system of claim 1, further comprising Quillaja saponaria trees received in each of the plurality of vegetation apertures.

20. The aeroponics system of claim 19, wherein the Quillaja saponaria trees are more than 2 years old.

21. An aeroponics system for growing vegetation, the system comprising: a structural rack having a holding base; and a plurality of individual chambers positioned on the holding base of the structural rack, each individual chamber of the plurality of individual chambers having a top side and a bottom side, each individual chamber including a plurality of stem-holding discs configured to receive a respective vegetation stem during a growth timeline, each respective vegetation stem having a root that grows and extends in a root-depth section between the top side and the bottom side, at least one individual pump located adjacent to the bottom side, and an irrigation manifold in fluid communication with the at least one individual pump, the irrigation manifold extending from the at least one individual pump towards the root-depth section.

22. The aeroponics system of claim 21, further comprising a lighting system that is adjustable relative to the plurality of individual chambers.

23. The aeroponics system of claim 21 , wherein the root-depth section accommodates roots in the range of at least about 36 inches to about 60 inches.

24. The aeroponics system of claim 21, wherein the irrigation manifold includes a plurality of sprayers arranged in an array configuration.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT25. The aeroponics system of claim 21, wherein the at least one individual pump includes a pump filter attached to an inlet of the at least one individual pump.

26. The aeroponics system of claim 21, wherein each individual chamber further includes a fill system disposed in the individual chamber, the fill system including a float valve that is configured to control an amount of flow of a growth media into the individual chamber.

27. The aeroponics system of claim 21, wherein each individual chamber further includes a floating barrier that attaches around a portion of the irrigation manifold and is configured to float in a growth media in the chamber, the floating barrier configured to prevent the root of each vegetation stem from soaking in the growth media.

28. An aeroponics system for growing Quillaja saponaria trees, the aeroponics system comprising: a lighting system configured to adjust in a vertical direction; and a plurality of individual chambers positioned below the lighting system to receive light emitted from the lighting system, each individual chamber of the plurality of individual chambers including a root-depth section located below a top side, a plurality of stem-holding discs mounted in the top side and configured to receive a respective Quillaja saponaria tree, at least one pump located adjacent to a bottom side, and an irrigation manifold in fluid communication with the at least one pump, the irrigation manifold extending from the at least one pump towards the root-depth section between the top side and the bottom side.4926-0984-9434 1 065508-000004WOPT

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