Greenhouse Filter Device with Dichroic Spectral Separation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current greenhouse technologies face challenges in efficiently utilizing solar spectrum for plant growth, particularly in arid regions, and struggle with high costs, complexity, and inefficiencies in light filtration and energy conversion.
Innovation Solution
A filter device with a fluoropolymer film greenhouse cover and a fluid filter system, utilizing collecting optics and phase-shifting processes to selectively filter and direct light spectra for optimal plant growth, while also incorporating light storage fluids and solar updraft chimneys for energy efficiency and air circulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Use of energy by moving object
If conventional greenhouse cover materials are used, then manufacturing cost is reduced, but light transmission efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional glass or plastic to fluoropolymer film, which has superior optical properties including higher light transmission efficiency (up to 97% of luminous flux) and favorable refractive index (n≈1.3) that reduces partial reflections
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses fluoropolymer film as a composite material that combines multiple desirable properties: high light transmission, UV stability, chemical inertness, and self-cleaning characteristics, creating a superior greenhouse cover material
2Use of energy by moving object
If fluoropolymer film is used for greenhouse cover, then light transmission efficiency increases, but material cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent changes the material parameter from conventional glass or plastic to fluoropolymer film, which has superior optical properties including higher light transmission efficiency (up to 97% of luminous flux) and favorable refractive index (n≈1.3) that reduces partial reflections
3Manufacturing precision
If conventional filter systems are used, then device complexity is reduced, but spectral filtering precision decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the spectral filtering function from complex multi-component systems and implements it through a single dichroic filter that selectively reflects green light (500-580nm) while transmitting other wavelengths, achieving precise spectral control with minimal components
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a dichroic filter that selectively reflects green light wavelengths (500-580nm) while transmitting other spectral ranges, achieving precise spectral separation through optical property changes rather than mechanical filtration
4Productivity
If green light is transmitted to plants, then device complexity is reduced, but plant productivity decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the green light portion (500-580nm) from the full solar spectrum using a dichroic filter and redirects it through a secondary reflector, separating this less useful spectral range from the light that reaches plants while maintaining system simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a dichroic filter that selectively reflects green light wavelengths (500-580nm) while transmitting other spectral ranges, achieving precise spectral separation through optical property changes rather than mechanical filtration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This solution allows for efficient use of the solar spectrum, increased plant productivity, reduced energy costs, and improved air circulation, enhancing plant growth conditions and energy management in greenhouses.
Implementation Method 1
The low optical refractive index n of about 1.3, which leads to low partial reflections on the front and back of the foil
Implementation Method 2
a dichroic filter which allows the spectral ranges B and D to pass through and which reflects the spectral range C
Implementation Method 3
a secondary reflector for directing the reflected light onto the planting area
Implementation Method 4
an updraft chimney for natural air circulation through solar heating
Data Source
Figure 1~2
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Figure 5
AI summary
The invention discloses numerous improvements for hothouses, which can contribute to a sustained improvement in the climate worldwide.