Control Apparatus for Plant Photosynthesis Using Effective Light Index
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing methods for measuring photon flux density for plant photosynthesis do not effectively utilize the index for the plant, as they do not account for environmental conditions that affect the actual utilization of light by the plant.
Innovation Solution
A control apparatus and system that calculates an effective index for light incident on a plant by considering environmental factors such as temperature, humidity, and CO2 levels, using a sensing apparatus and environment sensor to improve the light environment for optimal photosynthesis.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a quantum meter measures photon flux density for plant photosynthesis, then the measurement of light incident on the plant is achieved, but the measured index may not be effectively utilized for the plant because environmental conditions are not considered
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transforms the basic photon flux density measurement into an effective light utilization index by incorporating environmental parameters (temperature, humidity, CO2 concentration). This parameter change approach converts a simple physical measurement into a biologically meaningful index that reflects actual photosynthetic effectiveness under specific environmental conditions.
Solution Approach 2:
The control apparatus acts as an intermediary between the quantum meter and the plant cultivation system. It receives photon flux density data, integrates it with environmental sensor data, calculates the effective light utilization index, and provides control signals to lighting apparatus. This intermediary processing ensures that the raw measurement is transformed into actionable information for optimizing plant growth.
2Reliability
If environmental conditions are considered to calculate an effective light utilization index, then the effectiveness of light for plant photosynthesis is improved, but the system complexity increases due to multiple sensors and calculation processes
Solution Approach 1:
The control apparatus is designed as a multi-functional device that simultaneously performs data acquisition from multiple sensors, environmental monitoring, effective light utilization index calculation, and lighting control. By consolidating these functions into a single control system, the patent reduces the need for separate dedicated devices for each function, thereby managing system complexity while achieving comprehensive environmental consideration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the quantum meter, environmental sensors, and lighting control system into an integrated cultivation management system. The control apparatus combines multiple data streams (photon flux density, temperature, humidity, CO2) into a unified effective light utilization index, and uses this single index to coordinate lighting adjustments. This merging approach simplifies the overall system architecture compared to having separate independent systems for each measurement and control function.
3Productivity
If the effective index is used to control the lighting apparatus, then the light environment for plants is optimized, but the complexity of control and measurement increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements a feedback control mechanism where the effective light utilization index calculated by the control apparatus is continuously used to adjust the lighting apparatus operation. The control apparatus monitors the actual light environment, recalculates the effective index based on current environmental conditions, and adjusts lighting intensity and duration accordingly. This closed-loop feedback ensures optimal photosynthesis efficiency while automating the control process to manage the inherent system complexity.
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
The system effectively utilizes the calculated effective index to improve the light environment for plants, enhancing photosynthesis by determining the optimal amount of light and environmental conditions for plant growth.
Implementation Method 1
a quantum meter that measures photon flux density effective for the photosynthesis of a plant
Implementation Method 2
an environment sensor sensing an environment around the measured object
Implementation Method 3
the photosynthesis of a plant is affected by the number of photons that are particles of light
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments include a control apparatus, a control method, and a control system that can effectively utilize an index regarding light incident on a measured object by obtaining the index effective for the measured object. The control apparatus can effectively utilize an effective index by controlling improvement of an environment that affects calculation of the effective index on the basis of the effective index representing an index that is related to light incident on a measured object and that is effectively utilized for the measured object. The measured object may be a plant.