Modular Hydroponics Cultivation Modules with Inclined Water Channels
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current plant factory systems are limited by small-sized cultivation modules, making it difficult to achieve large-area and high-density plant cultivation, and they lack efficient water channel formation and nutrient solution management.
Innovation Solution
A hydroponics apparatus with vertically spaced channels, brackets, and extendable cultivation modules that form inclined water channels, allowing for multiple layers and parallel arrangements, along with a drainage module and light source module, to facilitate smooth water flow and high-density cultivation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Area of stationary object
If conventional small-sized cultivation modules are used, then the system is simple to manufacture, but the cultivation area and capacity are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The cultivation system is divided into multiple independent cultivation modules that can be coupled together. Each module contains its own water channel, brackets, and support structures, allowing them to be manufactured separately and then assembled into larger configurations to increase cultivation area while maintaining manufacturing simplicity
Solution Approach 2:
Cultivation modules are designed to be nested or coupled with each other in a hierarchical manner, where multiple modules can be connected vertically and horizontally. This nesting approach allows the system to scale up cultivation area by combining standardized modules rather than building entirely new large-scale structures
2Productivity
If cultivation modules are extended and coupled together, then the cultivation capacity increases, but the water channel formation becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The water channel structure is designed as a universal component that performs multiple functions: it serves as the cultivation medium reservoir, provides structural support through its integration with brackets, and enables modular coupling between modules. This multi-functionality reduces the need for separate water channel components in each module, simplifying the overall water channel formation despite increased cultivation capacity
Solution Approach 2:
The water channel is merged with the cultivation module structure itself rather than being a separate component. The channel is formed as an integral part of the module body, combining the functions of water containment, plant support, and module identification into a single unified structure that simplifies assembly and reduces complexity
3Quantity of substance
If multiple layers and parallel arrangements are implemented, then the cultivation density increases, but the structural stability becomes more challenging
Solution Approach 1:
The brackets are designed with height adjustments to create equipotential surfaces for each cultivation module layer. By adjusting the bracket heights, each module is positioned at an optimal elevation that ensures structural balance and stability across multiple layers, preventing uneven loading and structural failure while maximizing cultivation density
Solution Approach 2:
The brackets are pre-positioned and secured to the channels before the cultivation modules are installed. This preliminary action ensures that the support structure is firmly established and can bear the weight of multiple layers, providing structural stability before the full load is applied
4Ease of operation
If the brackets are coupled to channels with varying heights, then the water channel inclination is formed, but the manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The bracket height is designed as a variable parameter rather than a fixed dimension. Brackets can be adjusted to different heights to create the necessary water channel inclination for proper water flow, while the manufacturing tolerances are set to accommodate reasonable variations. This parameter approach allows the system to achieve functional water flow efficiency without requiring extreme manufacturing precision
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
Enables large-area and high-capacity plant cultivation with efficient water management and easy replacement of pot modules, maximizing cultivation density and convenience while preventing issues like water pooling and algal blooms.
Implementation Method 1
the plurality of brackets are coupled to the channels so that heights are gradually increased or decreased from one-side bracket in the horizontal direction to the other bracket in the horizontal direction to form an inclination of the water channel
Data Source
AI summary
A hydroponics apparatus includes a housing; two or more channels provided vertically on one side of the housing to be spaced apart from each other; brackets coupled to the channels; and cultivation modules seated on the brackets, wherein a plurality of cultivation modules is fitted and coupled to each other to have an extended form and water channels are formed to communicate with each other, the cultivation modules in the extended form are coupled to each channel and seated through a plurality of brackets disposed in a horizontal direction, and the plurality of brackets are coupled to the channels so that heights are gradually increased or decreased from one-side bracket in the horizontal direction to the other bracket in the horizontal direction to form an inclination of the water channel.