Mechanism for passive immersion irrigation integrated into a lid and container for seedling nurseries and substrates in general

Abstract

The present patent application relates to a passive immersion irrigation mechanism, designed to optimise moisture retention and reduce water loss by evaporation, promoting an ideal environment for seedling growth. The present invention comprises a modular container (1) formed by stacked and accordion-folded modules (2) having apertures arranged in a regular pattern and concentric configuration (3). A hexagonal lower base (4) comprises apertures (5) of larger diameter distributed along its lateral periphery (6) and a flat lower region (7). A hexagonal upper neck (8) has recessed internal sockets (9), connecting securely to a lid (10). The lid (10), which is hexagonal in shape (11), has upper (12) and lower (13) peripheries interconnected at a 90° angle (14), forming an internal reservoir (R). The lid is equipped with uniform apertures (17) in the flat upper surface (16), which allow the controlled passage of water and reverse flow when immersed, promoting the swelling of the superabsorbent polymer (P) applied to the internal surface. Said superabsorbent polymer (P) absorbs and releases water gradually, ensuring ideal moisture for the substrate. Additionally, a spacer element (20) is positioned beneath the lid (10), having multiple apertures (25) and a central semi-circular opening (23), which facilitate ventilation and prevent direct contact between the substrate and the lid. The multiple apertures (17) enable the roots to develop out of the modular container (1), breaking through the structure and ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth. The lid (10) also acts as a visual indicator of the moisture level, as well as having a reservoir (R) that acts as a barrier against insects, while reducing water consumption, contributing to water efficiency and environmental sustainability.

Description

[0001] Immersion and passive irrigation mechanism integrated into a lid and receptacle for seedling nurseries and substrates in general.

[0002] FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0003]

[0001] This patent application relates to a passive irrigation mechanism integrated into a lid and receptacle for seedling nurseries and substrates in general. The field of application is focused on agriculture, more particularly, on planting and seedling management technologies in nurseries. The present invention aims to provide an efficient solution for passive irrigation, promoting optimized moisture retention, reducing water loss through evaporation, and improving seedling development. Furthermore, it directly contributes to the conservation of water resources, the sustainability of nurseries, and efficiency in the time required to prepare seedlings for planting in the field.

[0004] PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED

[0005]

[0002] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention stems from a central deficiency observed in the prior art: the fact that the receptacle remains open at the top contributes to water loss, both through leaf transpiration and direct evaporation, exacerbating water retention deficiencies and increasing the need for frequent irrigation. This situation results in wasted water resources, high maintenance costs, and low operational efficiency in seedling production and management processes. Furthermore, insufficient water retention can compromise the uniform development of seedlings, increasing the risk of mortality.

[0006]

[0003] Requires a long period (approximately 60 days) in a greenhouse to structure the root system, with the aim of increasing resistance to mechanical damage.

[0007]

[0004] The enclosure fitted with the lid (object of the patent) offers a completely protective environment for the root system, even eliminating the root system structuring phase, keeping it protected from all harmful factors pertinent to the state of the art. This results in lower production costs and earlier seedling maturity. CURRENT STATE OF THE ART

[0008]

[0005] The document BR 112016010090-5, published on 10 / 11 / 2020, entitled “METHOD FOR MANUFACTURING PLANT RECEPTACLE, AND PLANT RECEPTACLE”, is known from the current state of the art and teaches about a method of manufacturing a plant receptacle in which the following steps are performed: a) providing a mixture of fibers, said mixture comprising at least PLA fibers and a biodegradable fiber; b) using said fiber mixture in an interwoven or non-interwoven process, making a permeable sheet material; c) continuously forming said sheet material into a continuous receptacle, placing the lateral edges of said sheet material in contact and welding said lateral edges together;d) cutting said continuous receptacle into predetermined lengths, thereby creating separate plant receptacles, or wherein said continuous receptacle is perforated substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal direction of the continuous receptacle at predetermined intervals, thereby allowing the plant receptacles to be detached from the continuous receptacle to be separated.

[0009]

[0006] Document PI 0902708-4, published on 0 / 08 / 2011, entitled “PLANT RECEPTACLE, METHOD FOR FORMING A STRUCTURAL AREA IN A PLANT RECEPTACLE, AND APPARATUS FOR PRODUCING A PLANT RECEPTACLE”, teaches about a plant receptacle, which has a net, or laminated material, preferably a non-woven cotton fiber material, for example, tegument, with a first structural resistance, the plant receptacle having at least one structural area with a different and greater resistance, where this different structural area is formed by wetting, compression and subsequent drying of a part of the net, or laminated material; due to the fact that the net or laminated material, from which the plant receptacle is formed, is a water-soluble tegument, for example, of cotton fibers.

[0010]

[0007] The present invention presents substantial technical differences in relation to the prior art documents cited, such as BR 112016010090-5 and PI 0902708-4. Unlike BR 112016010090-5, which teaches about the manufacture of receptacles using specific materials such as PLA and biodegradable fibers, our invention incorporates an integrated passive irrigation system that uses superabsorbent polymers coupled to a lid with multiple perforated holes for dynamic moisture control, promoting efficient and continuous irrigation. Furthermore, while PI 0902708-4 describes receptacles with structural areas reinforced by processes such as compression and drying, the present invention stands out for its use of modular and interconnectable components, associated with a functional mechanism for retention and gradual release of water, in addition to offering direct visualization of moisture levels.These innovative features not only overcome the structural limitations of the aforementioned documents, but also solve operational and environmental problems in an integrated and sustainable way.

[0011]

[0008] In due course, the link: https: / / www.youtube.com / watch?v=cD2ug0ywBCw, published on 04 / 04 / 2022, describes bags for planting seedlings, revealing, precisely, one of the limiting aspects of the state of the art, which lies in the fact that the receptacle is open at the top.

[0012] OBJECTIVES OF THE INVENTION

[0013]

[0009] The objective of the present invention is to provide an efficient passive irrigation mechanism capable of optimizing moisture retention and uniform water distribution in seedling nurseries and substrates in general.

[0014]

[0010] The objective of the present invention is to reduce water loss through evaporation, promoting the sustainable use of water resources and agriculture.

[0015]

[0011] The objective of the present invention is to offer a modular mounting mechanism, allowing the connection of multiple receptacles, facilitating scalability for large-scale applications.

[0016]

[0012] The objective of the present invention is to incorporate means of visually monitoring humidity, using superabsorbent polymers to indicate the level of available water and the need for replenishment.

[0017]

[0013] The objective of the present invention is to improve the handling and productivity in seedling cultivation, contributing to faster and healthier plant growth, with a reduction in the greenhouse time required for planting in the field.

[0014] The objective of the present invention is to prevent mechanical damage to the root system due to improper transport and handling.

[0018]

[0015] The objective of the present invention is to create a physical barrier against pest attacks.

[0019]

[0016] The objective of the present invention is to promote immersion irrigation, characterized by being efficient and low cost.

[0020] GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021]

[0017] The present invention contemplates a passive immersion irrigation mechanism designed to optimize efficient moisture retention and reduce water loss through evaporation, promoting an ideal environment for seedling growth. The present invention comprises a modular receptacle formed by multiple stacked and accordion-like modules, with holes distributed in a regular pattern and concentric arrangement, in addition to a hexagonal lower base with larger diameter holes and a hexagonal upper nozzle equipped with recessed internal fittings. The passive immersion irrigation mechanism also includes a lid configured with a double hexagonal contour, which creates an internal reservoir for water storage. The lid has multiple holes and a hollow cylindrical protrusion, allowing controlled water passage and assisting in passive irrigation.Additionally, a spacer element is installed under the lid to allow air circulation while keeping the substrate aerated. One of the main distinguishing features of the present invention lies in the use of a superabsorbent polymer, applied to the underside of the lid, which absorbs and releases water gradually, ensuring efficient moisture retention and providing ideal conditions for seedling development. The holes also act as an irrigation mechanism when the structure is immersed, allowing the reverse flow of water, which promotes the swelling of the superabsorbent polymer and the substrate. The multiple holes allow roots to develop outside the receptacle when it is inserted into the soil, breaking the structure and offering optimal conditions for healthy plant growth.Nevertheless, the present invention has functionalities such as visual indicators of moisture levels, physical barriers against insects, and the ability to optimize the time required to prepare seedlings for planting, in addition to providing greater efficiency in the use of water resources and less environmental impact.

[0022] ADVANTAGES OF THE INVENTION

[0023]

[0018] The present invention offers the following advantages:

[0024] The passive irrigation mechanism ensures even water distribution, providing efficient hydration for the seedlings while keeping the substrate moist for longer.

[0025] Immersion irrigation is a rustic, low-investment system that can be applied in the field without the need for specific structures.

[0026] ✓ The combination of multiple perforated holes in the lid and integrated superabsorbent polymers minimizes water waste, promoting sustainability and efficiency in the use of water resources;

[0027] The behavior of the superabsorbent polymer acts as a visual indicator of humidity, allowing easy identification of the available water level and the ideal time for replenishment, in addition to helping retain moisture by swelling;

[0028] The interlocking elements allow for the assembly of multiple receptacles, facilitating scalability in nurseries and expanding applicability in large-scale projects;

[0029] ✓ The constant maintenance of ideal humidity, guaranteed by the interaction between the holes and the superabsorbent polymer, promotes vigorous plant development, reducing the greenhouse time needed for planting in the field, directly influencing production costs and optimizing greenhouse operations;

[0030] ✓ Immersion irrigation is a rustic system that requires low investment and can be applied in the field without the need for specific and expensive structures;

[0031] Greater resistance to mechanical damage;

[0032] Greater versatility and ease of handling the seedlings.

[0033] DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

[0034]

[0019] The following figures are presented to better explain the patent application in an illustrative and non-limiting manner:

[0020] Fig. 1: shows a perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the preferred embodiment;

[0035]

[0021] Fig. 2: shows an inverted perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the preferred embodiment;

[0036]

[0022] Fig. 3: shows an exploded perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the preferred embodiment;

[0037]

[0023] Fig. 4: shows a side view in section of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the preferred embodiment;

[0038]

[0024] Fig. 5: shows a perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the second preferred embodiment;

[0039]

[0025] Fig. 6: shows an exploded perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the second preferred embodiment;

[0040]

[0026] Fig. 7: shows an exploded inverted perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the second preferred embodiment;

[0041]

[0027] Fig. 8: shows an exploded perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the third preferred embodiment;

[0042]

[0028] Fig. 9: shows an exploded inverted perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the third preferred embodiment;

[0043]

[0029] Fig. 10: shows a perspective view of the immersion and passive irrigation mechanism, showing the preferred embodiment in use;

[0044]

[0030] Fig. 11: Shows a graph demonstrating the relationship between the number of holes in the lid and moisture loss in the receptacle. An increase in the number of holes intensifies the loss, while lids with fewer holes minimize this effect, indicating that the main escape route for moisture is the lid. Thus, the graph shows that efficient closure of the top is essential for controlling internal humidity.

[0045] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0046]

[0031] The IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, object of the present invention, in a first embodiment, consists of an immersion and passive irrigation (IPM) mechanism formed by a modular receptacle (1) composed of multiple modules arranged in a stacked and accordion-like manner (2), each configured by holes distributed in a regular pattern and in a concentric arrangement (3) along its surface. The modular receptacle (1) has a hexagonal lower base (4) with larger diameter holes (5) distributed on its lateral contour (6) and on the lower flat region (7), and also has a hexagonal upper nozzle (8) equipped with recessed internal fittings (9).

[0047]

[0032] The immersion and passive irrigation (MIP) mechanism, in addition to the modular receptacle (1), also includes a lid (10) configured with a hexagonal shape (11) that follows the geometry of the modular receptacle (1). The lid (10) has a hexagonal upper contour (12) aligned with the modular receptacle (1) and a smaller hexagonal lower contour (13), both interconnected perpendicularly at an external and internal 90° angle (14). Furthermore, the hexagonal upper contour (12) and the hexagonal lower contour (13), being interconnected perpendicularly at a 90° angle (14), internally form a reservoir (R). The hexagonal lower contour (13) includes convex ribs (15) configured to fit into the recessed internal fittings (9) of the hexagonal upper nozzle (8) of the modular receptacle (1), allowing a firm fit.Furthermore, the lower hexagonal contour (13) is designed to enter the upper hexagonal nozzle (8), while the upper hexagonal contour (12) remains properly aligned with a modular receptacle (1). The flat upper surface (16) of the lid (10) is equipped with multiple holes (17) distributed uniformly in a regular pattern, in addition to having a hollow cylindrical protrusion (C).

[0048]

[0033] In time, the passive immersion irrigation (PIP) mechanism comprises a spacer element (20) configured to be installed below the lid (10), acting as a spacer that prevents direct contact of the substrate with the lid (10), allowing air circulation between them. The spacer element (20) has a hexagonal shape (21) composed of a central semicircular opening (23), having a flat surface (24) equipped with multiple holes (25), which allow airflow and contribute to substrate ventilation. The central semicircular opening (23) includes a structural reinforcement in the form of a molded elevation (26), distancing the spacer element (20) from the lid (10), allowing the substrate to be pushed down at planting time, creating the necessary space for aeration.

[0049] HOW IT WORKS

[0050]

[0034] The lower part of the flat upper surface (16) equipped with multiple holes (17) of the lid (10) is made of superabsorbent polymer (P). The superabsorbent polymer (P) absorbs and stores water, releasing it gradually to the substrate as needed. In addition, it helps maintain ideal moisture for the seedlings, promoting healthy and vigorous growth.

[0051]

[0035] The reservoir (R) acts as an additional reservoir to store water, ensuring that water is distributed uniformly through the multiple holes (17) evenly distributed on the flat upper surface (16), facilitating immersion or sprinkler irrigation, and ensuring that water reaches all parts of the substrate. Furthermore, these technical characteristics, according to the present invention, constitute a highly efficient passive immersion irrigation (PIP) mechanism that optimizes moisture retention, reduces water loss through evaporation, and provides seedlings with an ideal environment for their development. This contributes to reducing the time required for seedlings to be ready for planting in the field, as well as improving the efficiency of water resource use.

[0052]

[0036] In time, the multiple holes (17) evenly distributed on the flat surface (8) with the superabsorbent polymer (P), not only control moisture efficiently, but also provide a visual indication of the available moisture level.

[0053]

[0037] The multiple orifices (17) evenly distributed on the flat upper surface (16) play a dual role in the functioning of the immersion and passive irrigation (IPM) mechanism. When the immersion and passive irrigation (IPM) mechanism is immersed, the multiple orifices (17) allow the reverse flow of water, promoting the expansion of the superabsorbent polymer (P) and the substrate. As the superabsorbent polymer (P) absorbs water, it expands, closing the multiple orifices (17) and preventing excessive evaporation. When the water is released, the superabsorbent polymer (P) shrinks, reopening the multiple orifices (17) for further absorption. In addition, the multiple orifices (17) allow root development outside the receptacle, especially when inserted into the soil, enabling the structure to break through and ensuring optimal conditions for plant growth.

[0054]

[0038] Furthermore, the reservoir (R) and the multiple holes (17) act as a visual indicator, allowing producers to easily monitor moisture and know when it is necessary to replenish the water.

[0055]

[0039] Finally, the reservoir (R) is designed to store gel or similar products, configured as a physical barrier to insects and similar pests.

[0056] FROM THE EXPERIMENTAL GRAPH

[0057]

[0040] The attached graph in Figure 11 demonstrates that as the number of holes in the lid increases, moisture loss also intensifies. On the other hand, lids with fewer holes show less moisture loss, proving that the main escape route for moisture occurs through the lid, and not through the bottom. Thus, the graph shows that the efficient sealing of the upper part of the receptacle is crucial for controlling internal humidity:

[0058] OF THE SECOND FORM OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0059]

[0041] The passive immersion irrigation (PIP) mechanism in a second embodiment comprises a lid (10) configured by a raised perimeter edge (27) that surrounds the entire length of the lid (10). The lid (10) includes an internal projection (28), arranged continuously along the inner perimeter of the raised perimeter edge (27), creating a stepped transition (29) to a recessed internal cavity (30) configured by a flat surface (31) equipped with multiple tapered orifices (32) into the cell, such that the multiple tapered orifices (32) allow water to penetrate from the outside in, which facilitates uniform distribution.

[0060]

[0042] On the lower part of the lid (10), more precisely, on the internal protrusion (28), a continuous fitting (33) is configured along the perimeter of the lid (10), which continuous fitting (33) is designed to receive the upper contour (34) of the nozzle (35) of a modular receptacle (1), in order to provide the fitting between the modular receptacle (1) and the lid (10).

[0043] The modular receptacle (1), in turn, is equipped with a plurality of sequential tapered holes (O) into the interior of the modular receptacle (1), distributed linearly in a uniform manner, which run vertically along the walls in parallel lines.

[0061]

[0044] In time, the modular receptacle (1) includes a flat lower surface (37) equipped with holes (38).

[0062]

[0045] Furthermore, the modular receptacle (1) comprises a lower right side fitting element (39) and a lower left side fitting element (40).

[0063] THE THIRD WAY OF CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0064]

[0046] In a third embodiment, the lid (10) and the modular receptacle (1) have the same technical characteristics as the second embodiment, however, with a hexagonal configuration (H). In addition, both the lid (10) and the modular receptacle (1) can have a circular, square, rectangular, triangular, or other configuration, and be translucent, expanding the versatility of application of the mechanism for different needs and cultivation patterns.

Claims

CLAIMS 1) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED IN A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, consists of an immersion and passive irrigation (IPI) mechanism formed by a lid (10) and a modular receptacle (1), characterized by multiple modules arranged in a stacked and accordion-like manner (2), each configured by holes distributed in a regular pattern and in a concentric arrangement (3) along its surface; the modular receptacle (1) has a hexagonal lower base (4) with larger diameter holes (5) distributed on its lateral contour (6) and in the lower flat region (7), and also has a hexagonal upper nozzle (8) equipped with recessed internal fittings (9); because the lid (10) is configured with a hexagonal shape (11) having a hexagonal upper contour (12) and a smaller hexagonal lower contour (13), both interconnected perpendicularly at an external and internal 90° angle (14);by the upper hexagonal contour (12) and the lower hexagonal contour (13) forming an internal reservoir (R); by the lower hexagonal contour (13) including convex ribs (15); by the lid (10) having a flat upper surface (16) of the lid (10) equipped with multiple holes (17) distributed uniformly in a regular pattern, in addition to having a hollow cylindrical projection (C); further, by the lower part of the lid (10) receiving a hexagonal spacer element (20) composed of a central semicircular opening (23), having a flat surface (24) equipped with multiple holes (25), whose central semicircular opening (23) includes a structural reinforcement in the form of a molded elevation (26), distancing the spacer element (20) from the lid (10). 2) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claim 1, is characterized by comprising a flat upper surface (16), the lower part of which is equipped with multiple orifices (17) filled with superabsorbent polymer (P), configured to absorb and store water, which is released gradually. 3) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claim 1, is characterized by comprising a flat upper surface (16) provided with multiple orifices (17) uniformly distributed, configured to store and distribute water uniformly through said multiple orifices (17). 4) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claim 1, is characterized by comprising a flat surface (8) equipped with multiple orifices (17) employing a superabsorbent polymer (P) associated with said orifices (17), configured to expand when absorbing water, closing the orifices (17), and to contract when releasing water, reopening the orifices (17); furthermore, the multiple orifices (17) are arranged in such a way as to allow the reverse flow of water. 5) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claim 1, is characterized by the fact that the reservoir (R) comprises multiple orifices (17) arranged in such a way as to allow visualization of moisture conditions. 6) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claims 1 and 5, is characterized by the fact that the reservoir (R) is designed to store gel or similar products, configured as a physical barrier. 7) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO A LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claim 1, in a second embodiment, is characterized by the lid (10) being configured with a raised perimeter edge (27) surrounding its entire length, having an internal ridge (28) arranged continuously along the inner perimeter of the raised perimeter edge (27), configuring a stepped transition (29) to a recessed internal cavity (30) configured by a flat surface (31) provided with multiple funnel-shaped holes (32); a continuous fitting (33) along the perimeter of the internal ridge (28), designed to receive the upper contour (34) of the nozzle (35) of the modular receptacle (1);by the modular receptacle (1), being configured with a plurality of sequential tapered holes (O) distributed linearly in a uniform manner along its walls in parallel lines, a flat lower surface (37) equipped with holes (38), and lower right (39) and left (40) side fitting elements.; 8) IMMERSION AND PASSIVE IRRIGATION MECHANISM INTEGRATED INTO LID AND RECEPTACLE FOR SEEDLING NURSERIES AND SUBSTRATES IN GENERAL, according to claim 1, in a third embodiment, is characterized by the lid (10) and the modular receptacle (1) configured in a hexagonal shape (H), having alternative geometric shapes, including circular, square, rectangular or triangular, and being translucent.

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