Apparatus for vertically growing cultivated plants and a production thereof

Abstract

The invention provides an apparatus for cultivating plants and a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants comprising at least one set of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) and a drainage system (14), wherein the grow chamber (10) and the one or more baskets (12) are each configured to hold the one or more baskets (12) inside the grow chamber (10), wherein the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) are vertically stackable forming a growth stack (32), and wherein the drainage system (14) is configured to interconnect the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) within growth stack (32).

Description

[0001] VGREENS HOLDING GMBH Dusseldorf, 21 January 2026 Our Reference: VD 41170 / UAM

[0002] vGreens Holding GmbH

[0003] Katemberger Str. 107, 45327 Essen, Germany

[0004] Apparatus for vertically growing cultivated plants and a production thereof

[0005] D e s c r i p t i o n

[0006] Field of invention

[0007] The present invention relates to an apparatus and a production thereof that is used in vertically growing cultivated plants.

[0008] Background

[0009] Vertical farming of cultivated plants is the practice of growing plants in vertically and horizontally stacked layers. It often incorporates controlled-environment agriculture, which aims to optimize plant growth, and comprises farming techniques such as hydroponics, aquaponics, and aeroponics.

[0010] The main advantage of utilizing vertical farming technologies, compared to conventional farming methods, is the increased plant yield per area of land requirement.

[0011] Although apparatus for growing cultivated plants are known, the apparatus is not vertically stackable for growing cultivated plants and the apparatus is not suitable for cultivation of cultivated plants in soil.US2023301254 Al discloses a vertical fanning system, including: a plurality of trayreceptacles, each having a tray-surface area for a soilless growing environment for plants; a vertical supporting structure arranged and adapted to accommodate the plurality of trayreceptacles in a vertically stacked anangement along a plurality of shelf positions; a trayreceptacle transport device arranged and adapted to move the tray-receptacles along the vertical supporting structure between the different shelf positions; an airflow-ducting device arranged and adapted to transport an airflow to and from the plurality of shelf positions; a plurality of vertically stacked airflow docking members to provide airflow from the air ducting device to the shelf positions; and a plurality of airflow-benches. Each airflow-bench is attached to at least one of the airflow docking members and is adapted to provide a downward-oriented airflow covering at least half of the tray-surface area of a tray-receptacle in a shelf position underneath the respective airflow-bench.

[0012] US2024373793 Al discloses an automated vertical farming system, including a framework structure forming a grid storage arrangement. One or more module handling vehicles are arranged to travel and transport modules along a rail system. A control system is configured to control the travel and operation of the one or more module handling vehicles. Stackable growth modules and stackable lighting modules are arranged to support growing plants, the growth modules having a footprint corresponding to that of a column of the framework structure, such that the growth modules may be arranged in stacks in the columns. The growth modules allow plants to grow horizontally and also provide a non-drip watering system for watering the plants and water tank modules for watering the columns of growth modules.

[0013] GB2619527 A discloses a vertical farming system comprising a plurality of grow trays for receiving a growth medium, each grow tray comprising a bottom tray surface; a plurality of support units, each support unit comprising a single platform comprising a top platform surface for supporting the bottom tray surface of a grow tray from below, wherein each bottom tray surface and / or each top platform surface are configured such that when a growtray is supported on top of a support unit, a ventilation space is defined between the bottom tray surface and the top platform surface, each support unit further comprising a fan mounted to the platform, the fan generating an airflow through the ventilation space; and a support structure for supporting the plurality of support units in a vertically spaced arrangement. Each support unit may comprise a lighting unit for radiating light to a region below the platform and the platform may further comprise a vent hole extending through the top platform surface and the bottom platform surface so that the ventilation space is in fluid communication with both the platform opening and the vent hole and the lighting unit is mounted at least partially within or below the vent hole.

[0014] GB2607019 A discloses a vertical farming apparatus, the apparatus comprising: a frame for supporting plant troughs or pots, a base for supporting the frame, an array of gutters supported by the frame, the array of gutters comprising an upper formation of gutters above a lower formation of gutters, a plurality of containers for housing plants, where each container is supported by and arranged to drain into a gutter in the array of gutters; and an irrigation system that is arranged to irrigate the containers; wherein the lower formation of gutters is arranged in a tiered configuration such that each gutter in the lower formation is at least partially offset in a first horizontal direction from the other gutters in the lower formation and is at least partially offset in a first horizontal direction from the gutters in the upper formation; said apparatus further comprising a supply system that is arranged to supply gaseous carbon dioxide, air and mixtures of carbon dioxide and air to the containers interchangeably. Each container may comprise a lid which may have one or more openings for plants to extend through, the lids may be arranged to accommodate irrigation conduits.

[0015] GB2598727 A discloses a vertical farming apparatus including an array of gutters supported by a frame for supporting troughs or pots, wherein the array of gutters comprises an upper formation of gutters above a lower formation of gutters, each gutter comprising a raised surface that is arranged to support the one or more troughs or pots and a drainage surfacebelow the raised surface that is arranged to accept drainage from the one or more plant troughs or pots, one or more irrigation lines supported by the frame, one or more conduits supported by the frame, the conduits arranged to supply carbon dioxide to the array of gutters and the plant troughs or pots. The lower formation of gutters is arranged in an offset tiered configuration to maximize the sunlight received by plants supported by the lower formation of gutters. The frame may comprise curved portions arranged in a tiered configuration and an upper support member may be supported by the curved member. Also disclosed is a kit of parts comprising the vertical farming apparatus and two or more plant troughs or pots.

[0016] Technical problem

[0017] It is an objective of the present invention to provide an improved apparatus for vertically growing cultivated plants. Especially an objective of the present invention is to provide an apparatus for vertical growing cultivated plants having reduced production costs, optimized modularity and a reduced storage space requirement.

[0018] It is an objective of the present invention to provide a new and modular apparatus for individual adjustments of the apparatus for vertically growing cultivated plants to adapt the needs of the cultivated plant and the local conditions at the production site.

[0019] These and other problems are solved by the embodiments set forth in the independent claims herein. The dependent claims disclose preferred embodiments.

[0020] Detailed description of the invention

[0021] According to a first aspect of the present invention, the apparatus for cultivating plants comprises

[0022] a) at least one set of a grow chamber and one or more baskets and

[0023] b) a drainage system,wherein the grow chamber and the one or more baskets are each configured to hold the one or more baskets inside the grow chamber, wherein the sets of a grow chamber and one or more baskets are vertically stackable forming a growth stack, and wherein the drainage system is configured to interconnect the sets of a grow chamber and one or more baskets within growth stack.

[0024] As used herein, the term drainage system is a system configured to provide the cultivated plant water and nutrient solutions and to remove excess of water. Excess water is water or nutrient solution, which was supplied to the plant by e.g., drip irrigation, but is not taken up by the cultivated plant. Water and nutrient solution may be provided by drip irrigation or by continuous or in phases water or nutrient flow. Nutrients or other soluble ingredients necessary for the plant to grow may be solved in the water forming nutrient solution.

[0025] Furthermore, the drainage system comprises a system by which excess water is actively or passively drained from the substrate on which the cultivated plants grow. Drainage of excess water prevents plant diseases from occurring which diseases are caused by or at least promoted by excess water, e.g., waterlogging.

[0026] In the simplest form, the drainage system is a pipe interconnected to any one of the parts of grow chamber, one or more baskets or connector which contains water or nutrient solution. In complex forms, the drainage system further comprises gaps between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets and one or more cut-outs in the baskets. Furthermore, the diameter of the pipes and / or interconnection contribute to watering, nutrition and drainage. The parts contributing to the drainage system may be individual parts or integral part of any one of the part of the apparatus.

[0027] Furthermore, the drainage system may comprise a further part in case gravity force is insufficient to drain off water from growth stack, which further part may be a siphon system, a jet or a pump.The apparatus is stackable in height which allows to grow cultivated plants in vertical farming, whereby each growth stack in a set of growth stacks harbors a level where the cultivated plants are grown.

[0028] At least two vertically arranged growth stacks form a set of growth stacks. Each growth stack within a set of growth stacks corresponds to one level (or floor or story) on which at least one cultivated plant is grown.

[0029] As used herein, the term modularity refers to the ability of the apparatus to be adjustable according to the specific needs. The adjustments which result in the modularity are made in the individual parts of which the apparatus is comprised of. The specific needs may relate to the needs of the plant, e.g., the space for the canopy of the cultivated plant or the humidity and nutrient system of the root of the cultivated plant.

[0030] Furthermore, the specific needs may relate to structural needs of the apparatus, e.g., stability against torsion, tilting.

[0031] Furthermore, the specific needs may relate to physical needs of the apparatus, .e.g., improving aeration and / or drainage of the roots.

[0032] For the reason of modularity, the apparatus comprises a grow chamber, one or more baskets and drainage system. The modularity allows necessary adjustments to the cultivated plant, or more precisely to the canopy of the cultivated plant. On the other one hand, the modularity allows for individual adjustments to the local conditions at the production site.The modularity of the height of the sets of growth stacks allows to maximize productivity by a given, limited height, e.g., the height may be limited by the ceiling of the building or a stability of the sets of growth stack.

[0033] The maximal productivity depends on the size of the canopy of the cultivated plant. A cultivated plant with a bigger canopy needs more space between the growth stack in a set of growth stacks whereas a cultivated plant with a smaller canopy needs less space between the growth stack in a set of growth stacks.

[0034] In case two or more different species of cultivated crops are grown within a set of growth stacks, each growth stack can be configured to provide the space each species needs.

[0035] The one or more baskets of the growth stack allow for growth of one or more plants.

[0036] Preferably the one or more baskets are configured to be placed on opposite sides in the grow chamber. In that way the cultivated plants can be harvested at the time by two persons. In case the cultivated plants are cultivated side by side, the cultivated plants can be successively harvested only by one person which makes the harvesting process slower and less productive.

[0037] The use of one or more baskets and cultivating one cultivating plant per basket allows for individual watering, if necessary, of the individual cultivated plant.

[0038] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an apparatus for cultivating plants is provided comprising

[0039] - a plurality of vertically stackable grow chambers,

[0040] - at least one removable basket arranged in each grow chamber and configured to receive a plant substrate, and

[0041] - a drainage system,wherein

[0042] - each basket is arranged spaced from inner walls of the grow chamber by at least one distancer so as to form at least one aeration and drainage gap,

[0043] - each basket comprises a plurality of cut-outs for drainage and aeration,

[0044] - adjacent grow chambers are vertically interconnected by a connector which defines a vertical spacing between the grow chambers and collects drainage liquid from an upper grow chamber, and

[0045] - the drainage system is configured to conduct the collected drainage liquid from one connector to a lower connector within the vertical stack.

[0046] According to an embodiment of the present invention, the one or more baskets comprise cutouts, wherein the one or more cut-outs are configured for drainage and / or aeration, and / or wherein the one or more cut-outs preferably are holes.

[0047] As used herein, the term aeration is a process by which air is circulated in and outside the apparatus to enhance the production of the cultivated plant and for sanitary purpose.

[0048] Apparatus, which contributes to aeration, helps to control humidity and temperature. Poor aeration leads to plant death, poor quality buds or root rot

[0049] Controlling aeration and providing apparatus for aeration of the root of the cultivated plant are critical for controlling the microclimate in the gap between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets where the cultivated plants grow. The microclimate in the gap is particularly important for sanitary of the roots of the cultivated plants.

[0050] The number of cut-outs and their shape of the one or more baskets, and the gap between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets influence the amount of drainage and the aeration. The number of cut-outs, the shape of the cut-outs of the one or more baskets and the gap between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets can be adjusted according to thedesired microclimate at the root of the cultivated plants. The desired microclimate depends on the needs of the cultivated crop.

[0051] Furthermore, the one or more cut-outs allow for a more uniform drain of excess water while still securing the substrate in place inside the one or more baskets.

[0052] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the grow chamber and / or the one or more baskets comprise at least one distancer, wherein at least one distancer is configured to form at least one gap between the one or more baskets from the grow chamber, whereby the at least one gap is configured allow drainage and / or aeration.

[0053] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the distancer is preferably a rib.

[0054] According to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the distancer is an integral part of the growth chamber and / or the basket, or wherein the distancer is a separate element of the apparatus configured to be placed in the space between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets.

[0055] The distancer is highly modular and may be integral part of the grow chamber and / or the one or more baskets, or a separate part placed in between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets. The distancer creates at least one gap between the grow chamber and the one or more baskets. As discussed above, the at least one gap between the growing chamber and the one or more baskets provides drainage and aeration to the roots of the cultivated plant.

[0056] The modularity of the distancer allows for adjustment of the drainage and aeration of the roots of the cultivated plant.According to another embodiment of the present invention, the connector is configured to assemble the set of a grow chamber and one or more baskets, and / or wherein the connector is configured to vertically stack at least two sets to form a growth stack.

[0057] The connector is highly modular. The connector may be placed in between two growth stacks. The connector may be used in the apparatus to increase the space for the canopy of a cultivated plant by adjusting the height of the connector.

[0058] Furthermore, the connector as an additional element of the apparatus increases the stability of the apparatus.

[0059] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the connector comprises a gutter for drainage, and / or wherein the connector is configured to be attached to the drainage system.

[0060] A gutter helps to maintain the humidity, water and nutrient supply of the cultivated crop by efficiently managing the water drainage.

[0061] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the connector is an integral part of the growth chamber and / or the basket, or wherein the connector is a further element of the apparatus.

[0062] The modularity of the connector increases the adjustability of the apparatus. Configuring the connector as integral part of the grow chamber or the one or more baskets increases the stability of the apparatus.

[0063] According to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the drainage system comprises at least one pole, wherein the pole is configured to hold the sets of a grow chamberand one or more baskets, and / or wherein each set of a grow chamber and one or more baskets are attached to the pole forming a vertically growth stack and secured in place by an adjustable ring.

[0064] The modularity of the pole increases the adjustability of the apparatus. The pole provides attachment points for the adjustable ring. By this, the pole supports adjustable vertical spacing between two growth stacks.

[0065] The attachment of the growth stacks to the pole adds stability to the growth stack. The pole may be part of the drainage system, whereby the pole helps to manage efficient water supply and water drainage.

[0066] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the growth chamber and / or connectors are configured to be slid into each other for space-saving storage, and / or wherein the basket is configured to be slid into each other for space-saving storage.

[0067] In this configuration, the grow chamber and the one or more baskets can be stored with the least possible space needed.

[0068] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the set of a grow chamber and one or more baskets is configured to provide space for a canopy of a cultivated plant.

[0069] Canopy is the aboveground portion of a plant formed by the collection of individual plant crowns above soil. In analogy, in vertical farming canopy is the portion of a cultivated plant formed by the individual plant crowns above substrate or soil. The part of the individual plant forming the canopy particularly includes the stems, leaves and flowers.The grow chamber can have different shapes at the site on which the cultivated plants grow. A preferable shape is a rounded side. This shape contributes to the space which the cultivated plants need to grow their canopy.

[0070] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the at least two baskets are configured to grow the cultivated plant on opposite sides, and / or wherein the one or more baskets inside the grow chamber 10 are configured to be individually watered.

[0071] Cultivating plant on both sites increase productivity by allowing harvesting at the same time.

[0072] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the grow chamber comprise a cutout configured for allowing space for removing the one or more baskets, and / or wherein the basket comprise a handle for removing the one or more baskets from the grow chamber. The cut-out on the grow chamber allows for the insertion or removal of the basket from a growth stack when the insertion or removal would be otherwise sterically hindered by the upper grow chamber to be removed vertically. The cut-out allows the basket to be inserted or removed in a horizontal way.

[0073] The insertion and removal of the one or more baskets in or from the grow chamber is simplified by the handle.

[0074] Beneficially, when not in use the baskets can be nested for storage and transportation. This allows for reduced storage space and transportation costs.

[0075] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the grow chamber, the one or more baskets, the drainage system, the distancer, the connector, the gutter, the pole, and / or the adjustable ring are made of a polymer or a polymer-fiber mix, wherein the fiber is glass or carbon , and / or wherein the polymer is polypropylene.The polymer polypropylene offers high stiffness, good chemical resistance, excellent dimensional stability, and low density. The polymer polyethylene offers high-impact strength, good chemical resistance, low moisture absorption, and ease of processing. The polymer polyethylene terephthalate offers impact resistance and can be easily processed into complex shapes. The polymer acrylonitrile butadiene styrene offers excellent impact resistance, dimensional stability, high surface hardness, and heat resistance. The polymer polycarbonate offers good dimensional stability and can withstand harsh environments without deformation or discoloration. The polymer polyamide offers high tensile strength, good chemical resistance, low friction coefficient, and excellent wear resistance. The choice of material from which the apparatus is made contributes to the flexibility of the apparatus.

[0076] The polymers can be combined with each other to further offer improved characteristics. The polymers can be combined with fibers to further offer improved characteristics such as stability.

[0077] According to another embodiment of the present invention, wherein the grow chamber, the one or more baskets, the drainage system, the distancer, the connector, the gutter, the pole , and / or the adjustable ring are manufactured by injection molding.

[0078] Manufacturing of the apparatus allows for complex geometries with tight tolerances, is compatible with a wide range of materials, and is efficient.

[0079] According to a second aspect of the present invention, a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants comprises

[0080] at least one set of a grow chamber and one or more baskets and a drainage system,wherein the grow chamber and the one or more baskets are each configured to hold the one or more baskets inside the grow chamber , wherein the sets of a grow chamber and one or more baskets are vertically stackable forming a growth stack 32, and wherein the drainage system is configured to interconnect the sets of a grow chamber and one or more baskets within growth stack; optionally comprising a connector; optionally comprising a pole.

[0081] A kit of parts offers customization, ease of transport and storage and ease of maintenance and repair of respective parts such as the grow chamber, the one or more baskets, the drainage system, the connector and / or the pole. This is especially beneficial compared to pre-installed vertical systems which are not customizable, hard to transport, require plenty of storage space and can only be hardly maintained or repaired, if at all.

[0082] Furthermore, the kit of parts allows an adjustment not only of the part which is to be adjusted primary, e.g., the height of the connector to allow the canopy of the cultivated plant space, but also the necessary adjustment of any other part which is related to the part of the primary adjustment. For example, the part of the drainage system which drains the excess water must be extended according to the height of the connector. The pipe of the drainage system 14 is external.

[0083] According to another embodiment, the substrate may be soil. Tests have shown that strawberry as the cultivated plant may be grown in soil as the substrate in the vertical system. The present invention combines the advantages of verticality with substrate growing in a drip and drain system.

[0084] To manufacture the apparatus for cultivating plants and a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants cost efficiently, the most suitable process is injection molding. The apparatus for cultivating plants and a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivatingplants is divided into separate components. This not only makes the molding process simpler, it also allows for easier adjustments in the future, should the necessity emerge.

[0085] To use injection molding cost effectively, it comes with significant design constraints. The part may not have undercuts, every surface parallel to the demolding direction has to be slightly angled, the material thickness has to be uniform throughout the entire part and every large feature has to be oriented colinear towards the material flow direction to name the most relevant constraints.

[0086] The predicted cost of the mold by the manufacturer is as follows: growth chamber 30k €, the connector 25k €, the basket 20k €.

[0087] The shape of the apparatus for cultivating plants and a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants is defined by an intricate combination of plant requirements, structural demands and injection molding constraints. The core plant requirements as given by the plant scientist are a substrate volume of 1-2 Liter per plant, a vertical spacing of 30 cm and as much canopy space as possible. Combined with structural demands and demoldability, the resulting shape is a curved wedge with 1,5 Liter substrate volume in the basket per plant that sits in a connector piece functioning as drain.

[0088] To ensure aeration of the substrate, the baskets are elevated from the grow chamber through ribs that may run along the growth chamber. While the distancer ribs could have been added to the basket instead, they were integrated into the grow chamber to add more strength to the grow chamber.

[0089] Each basket has its own dripper as nutrient solution source. According to a preferred embodiment, excess nutrient solution may flow through the basket along the walls of the grow chamber into the connector. The floor of the connector is slightly angled towards thedrainage hole (interconnection to drainage system). To ensure undisturbed flow, the ribs holding the base up are extruded only slightly into the connector’s basin. Tubes funnel the excess nutrient solution from each connector straight into the connector below.

[0090] The grow chamber may have a cutout at the front which the baskets fills. While this design decision might seem insignificant, it is in fact one of the most crucial features of the concept of the the apparatus for cultivating plants and a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants. The first utility the basket front serves is to ensure operational usability while retaining the curved form of the grow chamber. Would the front of the grow chamber be closed, the basket may only be removed in the +Z Axis direction. This in turn would necessitate the next grow chamber to start vertical without any curvature for the height of the vertical top part of the baskets, reducing the volume of the growth stack and increasing the vertical plant spacing. With the cutout of the growth chamber front, however, the basket is easily removed to the front without the need for +Z Axis clearance. The sides of the growh chamber remain in full height, ensuring maximum aeration through cut-outs in the basket.

[0091] The front of the basket also presents the opportunity to implement handles. The shape of the handles is uncommon for two reasons. First, their design has to conform with the process of injection molding - most notably two-part demoldability and material flow direction.

[0092] Secondly the handles utility has to remain functional when a truss-support is added either separately or to the growth stack itself. A typical handle would simply not be reachable from the front as soon as a truss-support is added. This means the handles have to function in operation by being accessed from the bottom - the only accessible direction once a trusssupport is added.

[0093] The substrate volume requirement results in large parts that would be expensive to distribute logistically. For that reason, the growth stack was designed with stackability in mind to reduce the volume for transportation by angling the sides.The only polymer that is going to be certified by the EU as food grade in the near future will be polypropylene (PP). Thus, PP is going to be the material of choice. For added strength, glass fibers are mixed into the PP allowing us to reduce the wall thickness of every component while remaining structural integrity, effectively reducing the weight and material costs. To retain the materials properties over time and under constant exposure to UV-light, food grade UV stabilizers are mixed into the PP. The growth stacks color will be white to reflect as much light as possible back to the plants.

[0094] In another embodiment the apparatus is supported by a truss support. There are two reasonable options for adding truss-supports to the apparatus: individual and collective. The individual truss-support is mounted at each growth stack and serves two plants. The collective truss support is mounted at the ends of the entire row of growth stacks, serving multiple growth stacks at once. The benefit of the individual truss support lies in the possibility to adapt its height individually for every growth stack and thus adapting it to the size of every two plants. However, this goes along with higher operational effort. The second reasonable option is the collective truss support of the growth stack that allows no individual adaptation but results in a less operational effort when readjusting the height.

[0095] A version optimized for the process of Injection Molding. Most notable adjustments are slots instead of grids in the basket and the shift of the connector angle struts to the grow chamber for the sake of material flow optimization.

[0096] A version optimized for full scale 3D printing on large printers. Most notable adjustments are diamond shaped grids in the basket for support free manufacturability. The connector angle struts remain on the connector to not increase the necessary print volume for the Base.A version optimized for full scale 3D printing on small printers. This is achieved by splitting the components into multiple parts. Same adjustments as the 3D printing version with the addition of dovetail connections between the split surfaces.

[0097] A version optimized for printing on small printers without splitting the part. The components are scaled by 70% which results in —1 / 3 of the volume. The 3 -liter basket in the scaled version has 1 -liter of volume. Same adjustments were made as to the 3D printing version.

[0098] According to an embodiment of the invention at present an apparatus for cultivating plants is provided comprising a plurality of grow chambers, at least one basket arranged in each grow chamber and configured to receive a plant substrate, and a drainage system, wherein the grow chambers are vertically stackable to form a vertical growth stack. Each basket is arranged spaced from inner walls of the grow chamber by at least one distancer so as to form at least one gap for drainage and aeration. Each basket comprises a plurality of cut-outs configured to allow drainage of excess liquid and aeration of the substrate. Adjacent grow chambers are vertically interconnected by at least one connector which defines a vertical spacing between the grow chambers and is configured to collect drainage liquid from an upper grow chamber and conduct the drainage liquid to a lower grow chamber via the drainage system.

[0099] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the grow chamber and the basket are configured such that the basket is removably insertable into and removable from the grow chamber.

[0100] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the grow chamber comprises a front cut-out, and the basket is configured to be inserted into and removed from the grow chamber in a horizontal direction through the front cut-out.According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one distancer is formed as one or more ribs extending along an inner wall of the grow chamber.

[0101] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the at least one distancer is an integral part of the grow chamber.

[0102] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connector comprises a gutter or an angled floor configured to guide drainage liquid, and at least one drainage opening connected to the drainage system.

[0103] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the drainage system comprises at least one vertical pole, and the grow chambers are attached to the pole at adjustable vertical positions by at least one adjustable ring.

[0104] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the connector is configured to provide different vertical heights between adjacent grow chambers in order to adapt space for a canopy of a cultivated plant.

[0105] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, each grow chamber is configured to receive two baskets arranged on opposite sides of the grow chamber.

[0106] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the grow chambers are configured to be nestable by sliding into one another for space-saving storage.

[0107] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the baskets are configured to be nestable by sliding into one another for space-saving storage.According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the grow chamber, the basket, the connector, and the drainage system are made of a polymer or polymer-fiber composite.

[0108] According to a further preferred embodiment of the invention, the grow chamber, the basket, and the connector are manufactured by injection molding.

[0109] Further, by the invention a kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants is provided, comprising a plurality of grow chambers, at least one basket for each grow chamber, and a drainage system. The grow chambers and the baskets are configured to form an apparatus as descripted by the embodiments above. The grow chambers are hence vertically stackable to form a growth stack.

[0110] The kit of parts may further comprise at least one connector and optionally at least one pole.

[0111] Short description of the figures:

[0112] Fig. 1 shows four individual vertical farming apparatuses;

[0113] Fig. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants;Fig. 3 shows a top view of the grow chamber;

[0114] Fig. 4 shows the modularity of height of the connector;

[0115] Fig. 5 shows a top view of a grow chamber 10;

[0116] Fig. 6 shows the stackability of the grow chamber;

[0117] Fig. 7 shows the stackability of the grow chamber for space-saving storage;

[0118] Fig. 8 shows the apparatus comprising a grow chamber;

[0119] Fig. 9 shows the adjustability of space for the canopy;

[0120] Fig. 10-15 show different embodiments of vertical farming apparatuses according to embodiments of the invention;

[0121] Fig. 16 a)-e) show different perspectives of a further preferred embodiment of a grow chamber;Fig. 17 shows the grow chamber shown in Fig. 16 a)-e) stacked in a store-away position; Fig. 18 a), b) show a wing element for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0122] Fig. 19 a), b) show another embodiment of a wing element for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0123] Fig. 20 a), b) show a connector for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0124] Fig. 21 a), b) show another embodiment of a basket for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0125] Fig. 22 a), b) show a coupling element for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention;

[0126] Fig. 23 a), b) show perspective views of a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention; and

[0127] Fig. 24 shows another perspective views of a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention.

[0128] Fig. 1 shows four individual vertical farming apparatuses each comprising a set of six growth stacks 32. Each growth stack 32 comprises a grow chamber 10 and one or more baskets 12 and a drainage system 14. The individual sets of growth stacks 32 can be individually placed next to each other. The individuality allows the sets of growth stacks 32 to be placed accordingly in any given room vertically and horizontally on the floor. Not shown but possible, four individual vertical farming apparatuses may be linked together for increased stability of the apparatus.

[0129] Fig. 2 shows a preferred embodiment of the kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants. The kit of parts comprises a grow chamber 10, one or more baskets 12, a drainage system 14, a connector 18 and at least one distancer 16. The at least one distancer 16 is an integral part of the grow chamber 10 and is a rib 30. The one or more baskets compriseone or more cut-outs 28 and whereby the one or more cut-outs 28 are holes. Each part of the kit of parts is configured to be adjustable according to the specific needs either of the cultivated plant (e.g., space, aeration, drainage), or the apparatus itself (e.g., stability, physically). Further, related parts to which an adjustment is made, are adjustable, too. For example, the adjustment may increase the height of the connector 18. This in turn makes an elongation of the drainage system 14 necessary. The modularity of the apparatus allows for adjustment of any part and if necessary, to any further related part.

[0130] Fig. 3 is a top view of the grow chamber 10, the drainage system 14 and the connector 18. Fig. 3a shows a top view of the apparatus comprising a grow chamber 10, a drainage system 14 and a connector 18. Fig. 3b shows a top view of the individual parts of the apparatus comprising a grow chamber (left) 10, , the connector 18 (middle) and a drainage system 14 (right) . Fig. 3 demonstrates that the individual parts are configured to be placed in relation to each other. The connector 18 may be placed on the grow chamber 10. The connector 18 is linked to the drainage system 14. Only upon the assembly of the parts, the apparatus itself becomes operable.

[0131] Fig. 4 shows the modularity of height of the connector 18 for adjusting the space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 in each growth stack 32. Fig. 4a comprises three growth stacks 32 and less space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 when compared to the two growth stacks 32 in Fig. 4b. Fig. 4c shows the modularity of height of the connector 18 whereby the upper connector 18 corresponds to the growth stack 32 in Fig. 4a and the lower connector 18 corresponds to the growth stack 32 in Fig. 4b. This modularity in height allows the apparatus to grow cultivated plants with different canopy. The canopy of the cultivated plant 26 may vary between the growth stage of the cultivated plant. The canopy of the cultivated plant 26 may also vary between two different species of cultivated plants. For example, a strawberry has a different need of space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 as a lettuce has a need of space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26.The modularity of the connector 18, in combination with the modularity of the drainage system 14 in Fig. 4, allows the exchange of parts not only in between two growth periods, but also during a single growth period, if needed, for example, when the cultivated crop reaches another growth stage.

[0132] Fig. 5 shows a top view of a grow chamber 10 (Fig. 5a) and a grow chamber 10 with one or more baskets 12 and at least one gap in between the grow chamber 10 and the one or more baskets 12 (b) for aeration and drainage. Fig. 5a shows the ribs 30 as distancer 16 as integral part of the grow chamber 10. The provision of several distancer between the grow chamber 10 and the one or more baskets 12 leads to several gaps in between. Fig. 6 shows a side view of the grow chamber 10, one or more baskets 12 and at least one gap in between the grow chamber 10 and the one or more baskets 12. Fig. 5b shows the one or more baskets 12 inside the grow chamber 10, whereby the one or more baskets 12 comprise cut-outs 28, and whereby the cut-outs 28 are holes. Together, the several gaps between the grow chamber 10 and the one or more baskets 12 and the cut-outs 28 of the one or more baskets 12 allow aeration and drainage of excess water at the roots of the cultivated plant. Aeration and drainage prevent or reduce root rot. The degree of aeration and drainage are controlled by the number of gaps between the grow chamber 10 and the one or more baskets 12 and / or the number of cut-outs 28 of the one or more baskets 12 and / or the shape of the cut-outs 28. Other forms than holes are also suitable for adjusting the degree of aeration and drainage.

[0133] Fig. 7 shows the stackability of the grow chamber 10 for space-saving storage. The grow chambers 10 are configured to slide into each other. Any other part of the apparatus or the kit of parts may also configured to slide into each other to become stackable for space-saving storage.Fig. 8 shows the apparatus comprising a grow chamber 10, a drainage system 14, a connector 18 and a pole 22, whereby the pole 22 is part of the drainage system 14. The pole 22 may be configured to be a central part of the apparatus. The central pole 22 further adds structural stability to the growth stacks 32. Fig. 8a shows the apparatus in an assembled way, whereas Fig. 8b shows another preferred kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants.

[0134] Fig. 9 shows the adjustability of space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 in each growth stack 32 in another preferred embodiment than the preferred embodiment shown in Fig. 4. Inside the grow chamber 10 are one or more baskets 12. The pole 22 is part of the drainage system 14 and allows the excess water, which collects at the bottom of the grow chamber 10, to rinse off. The pipe of the drainage system 14 is the pole 22 and is internally in the center. The grow chamber 10 and the pole 22 are interconnected. The pole 22 further adds structural stability to the apparatus and the pole functions as attachment point to the growth stacks 32. The grow stacks 32 are individually attached on a central pole 22 by an adjustable ring 24. By attaching the growth stacks 32 at variable heights to the pole 22, the space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 is varied according to the needs of the cultivated plant. Fig. 9a shows the growth stacks 32secured by an adjustable ring 24 on the pole to allow less space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 between two growth stacks 32, compared to more space for the canopy of the cultivated plant 26 between two growth stacks 32 in Fig. 9b.

[0135] Figs. 10 - 15 show preferred embodiments of the apparatus for cultivating plants and / or the kit of parts for building the apparatus for cultivating plants.

[0136] Fig. 16 a)-e) show different perspectives of a further preferred embodiment of a grow chamber 10. The grow chamber 10 comprises locking peaks 101 a / b adding surface area to assure a solid fit with the connector 36. The middle peak 101 b is lower to serve as injection point in the molding process. Further, the chamber 10 comprises a front cutout 103 which allows the basket to be slid out the front, similar to a drawer. This saves vertical space and streamlines operations. The curvature 102 gives plants underneath more space for theircanopy and reflects light to the plants underneath, which is especially beneficial for young plants. Further, it adds structural strength. The outer pillars 104 as seen in the side view Fig.

[0137] 16 b) ensure demoldability in the manufacturing process, as well as aiding in the distribution of forces. Side indentions 105 adds stability and ensure secure fit to connector, wing elements and coupling elements by adding surface area. Further, they create surfaces for the grow chambers 10 to lean against. The second curvature 106 adds additional stability. The indentions around the curvature 106 forms channels 107 further increasing the strength of the grow chamber 10. In the same manner, bridges 111 add stability and aid in the distribution of material during the molding process. Locking pockets 108 engage with the baskets to secure the baskets in x-y direction firmly. A channel block 109 interlocks with the basket for secure fit along the entire front. A lip 110 prevents baskets to fall out. Baskets have to be raised above the lip 110 to be taken out. As visible in Fig. 16 e), pillars 104 are formed by six indentations per side are the interlocking feature for the wings. Further, the pillars 104 also add strengthen to the sides by adding geometry folds and to provide offset to the wall for air to circulate freely.

[0138] Fig. 17 shows the grow chamber 10 shown in Fig. 16 a)-e) stacked in a store-away position. The side angle is chosen to provide stackability for optimized logistics as well as providing enough footprint to remain stable when assembled to several meter high column / wall.

[0139] Fig. 18 a), b) show a wing element 40 for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. The wing element 40 may comprise pin connector 401 which may add to distribute lateral loads. Further, the wing element 40 comprises a funnel 402 providing secure nutrient solution channelling to the bottom without contaminating baskets 10. Excess nutrient solution drips from the baskets into the connector in every level, where it is directed into the wing element 40 that carry it down to the drain. The funnel 402 is angled to directed nutrient solution flow towards the side of the base where it runs down into the next connector. Additionally, the angle ensures demoldability. The wing element 40 further comprises a rim 403 providing additional surface area at the intersection between a connectorand a wing element 40. Cavity ribs 404 add stability through dimensional geometry alternating for two-part demolding and further enables uniform wall thickness.

[0140] Fig. 19 a), b) show another embodiment of a wing element 40 for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. As in Figs. 18 a), b) the wing element 40 comprises a funnel 402.

[0141] Fig. 20 a), b) show a connector 36 for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. The connector 36 comprises funnel inlet 361 acting as the connection part to funnel of the wing elements. They get inserted into the funnel to provide a seal and prevent nutrient solution spilling. The diameter is chosen wide enough to prevent clogging, while being as small as possible to reduce wing element’s dimensions. The angled floor 362 directs the nutrition solution flow to the funnel inlets 361. Channel indents 363 add stability through additional surface area and geometry. Split locking peaks 364 connect the grow chamber with the connector 36, while ensuring nutrition solution can flow freely to the sides through the middle. These split locking peans 364 are slightly higher than the base locking peaks for clearance of nutrition solution. Shoulders 365 add support to the grow chamber and interlock with the channels of the grow chambers. Comers 366 holding the comers of the grow chambers.

[0142] Fig. 21 a), b) show another embodiment of a basket 12 for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. The basket 12 comprises a drainage pattern 121 on all sides for drainage and aeration. Further, the basket 12 as shown comprises channel block inserts 122 to sit onto the channel blocks of the grow chambers. The basket 12 further comprises a locking pocket pin 123 which sits in the arranged vertical farming apparatus on the grow chamber to secure the basket 12 in horizontal direction.Fig. 22 a), b) show a coupling element 38 for a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. The coupling element 38 comprises a carry -through hole 381 for integration of a pipe channel. Additional square extensions 382 add stability to the coupling element 38. Hollow spares 383 provide equal wall strength and stability.

[0143] Fig. 23 a), b) show perspective views of a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. Grow chambers 10 are stacked together using a connector 36. Each grow chamber 10 comprises wing elements 40. Each grow chambers 10 holds two basket 12.

[0144] Fig. 24 shows another perspective views of a vertical farming apparatus according to an embodiment of the invention. Grow chambers 10 are stacked together using a connector 36. Each grow chamber 10 comprises wing elements 40. Each grow chambers 10 holds two basket 12.REFERENC E SI GN S 10 grow chamber

[0145] 12 one or more baskets

[0146] 14 drainage system

[0147] 16 distancer

[0148] 18 connector

[0149] 20 gutter

[0150] 22 pole

[0151] 24 adjustable ring

[0152] 26 canopy of a cultivated plant

[0153] 28 cut-out

[0154] 30 rib

[0155] 32 growth stack

[0156] 34 handle

[0157] 36 connector38 coupling element

[0158] 40 wing element

[0159] 101 a / b locking peaks

[0160] 102 curvature

[0161] 103 front cutout

[0162] 104 pillars

[0163] 105 side indentions

[0164] 106 second curvature

[0165] 107 channels

[0166] 108 locking pocket

[0167] 109 channel block

[0168] 110 lip

[0169] 111 bridges

[0170] 121 drainage pattern

[0171] 122 channel block inserts

[0172] 361 funnel inlets

[0173] 362 angled floor363 channel indents 364 split locking peaks 365 shoulder

[0174] 366 comer

[0175] 381 carry -through hole 382 square extension 401 pin connection 402 funnel

[0176] 403 rim

[0177] 404 cavity rib

Claims

C l a i m s1. An apparatus for cultivating plants comprisinga. at least one set of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) andb. a drainage system (14),wherein the grow chamber (10) and the one or more baskets (12) are each configured to hold the one or more baskets (12) inside the grow chamber (10),wherein the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) are vertically stackable forming a growth stack (32), andwherein the drainage system (14) is configured to interconnect the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) within growth stack (32).

2. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the at least two baskets (12) are configured to grow the cultivated plant on opposite sides, and / or wherein the one or more baskets inside the grow chamber (10) are configured to be individually watered, and / or wherein the one or more baskets (12) comprise cut-outs (28), wherein the one or more cut-outs (28) are configured for drainage and / or aeration, and / or wherein the one or more cut-outs (28) preferably are holes.

3. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grow chamber (10) and / or the one or more baskets (12) comprise at least one distancer (16), wherein at least one distancer (16) is configured to form at least one gap between the one or more baskets (12) from the grow chamber (10), whereby the at least one gap is configured allow drainage and / or aeration.

4. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distancer (16) is preferably a rib (30).

5. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the distancer (16) is an integral part of the growth chamber (10) and / or the basket (12), or wherein the distancer (16) is a separate element of the apparatus configured to be placed in the space between the grow chamber (10) and the one or more baskets (12).

6. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims further comprises a connector (18), wherein the connector ( 18) is configured to assemble the set of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12), and / or wherein the connector ( 18) is configured to vertically stack at least two sets to form a growth stack (32).

7. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (18) comprises a gutter (20) for drainage, and / or wherein the connector (18) is configured to be attached to the drainage system (14).

8. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the connector (18) is an integral part of the growth chamber (10) and / or the basket (12), or wherein the connector (18) is a further element of the apparatus.

9. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the drainage system (14) comprises at least one pole (22), wherein the pole (22) is configured to hold the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12), and / or wherein each set of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) are attached to the pole forming a vertically growth stack, and secured in place by an adjustable ring (24).

10. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the growth chamber (10) is configured to be slid into each other for space-saving storage, and / or wherein the basket (12) is configured to be slid into each other for space -saving storage.

11. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the set of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) is configured to provide space for a canopy of a cultivated plant (26).

12. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grow chamber (10) comprise a cut-out configured for allowing space for removing the one or more baskets (12),and / or wherein the basket comprise a handle (34) for removing the one or more baskets (12) from the grow chamber (10).

13. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grow chamber (10), the one or more baskets (12), the drainage system (14), the distancer (16), the connector (18), the gutter (20), the pole (22), and / or the adjustable ring (24) are made of a polymer or a polymer-fiber mix, wherein the fiber is glass or carbon , and / or wherein the polymer is polypropylene.

14. The apparatus according to any one of the preceding claims, wherein the grow chamber (10), the one or more baskets (12), the drainage system (14), the distancer (16), the connector (18), the gutter (20), the pole (22), and / or the adjustable ring (24) are manufactured by injection molding.

15. Kit of parts for building an apparatus for cultivating plants comprisinga. at least one set of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) andb. a drainage system (14),wherein the grow chamber (10) and the one or more baskets (12) are each configured to hold the one or more baskets (12) inside the grow chamber (10),wherein the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) are vertically stackable forming a growth stack (32), andwherein the drainage system (14) is configured to interconnect the sets of a grow chamber (10) and one or more baskets (12) within growth stack (32);optionally comprising connector (18);optionally comprising pole (22).

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