Under-Canopy Air Circulation Bracket for Aeroponic Systems
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
In aqueous farming systems, particularly for leafy crops, exposing plant canopies to mist environments can be detrimental to growth and health, and existing barriers separating the mist from the roots are insufficient to create a suitable environment for the leaves and canopies to thrive.
Innovation Solution
An under-canopy air circulation system using a holder with air ejection holes and fans to provide airflow under the plant canopies, which includes a bracket with a base and arms for easy handling and installation, ensuring air circulation and improved plant growth conditions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of stationary object
If a barrier is used to separate the mist environment from the plant canopy, then the volume of mist environment required is reduced, but the plant canopy environment becomes unsuitable for healthy growth
Solution Approach 1:
The system segments the air circulation by introducing dedicated air ejection holes that deliver air specifically to the under-canopy region, separating the mist environment volume reduction benefit from the canopy health requirement through localized air delivery zones
Solution Approach 2:
The system applies local quality by providing air circulation specifically to the under-canopy region through strategically positioned air ejection holes, creating a localized favorable environment for the canopy while maintaining the barrier's volume reduction function elsewhere
2Productivity
If air circulation is provided under the plant canopies, then plant growth is enhanced, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system merges the air circulation function with the existing holder structure by integrating air ejection holes, air intake holes, and fans directly into the holder, combining multiple functions into a single integrated component to minimize added complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The holder is designed with multi-functionality, serving both as a structural support for the plants and as an air circulation device with integrated fans and air ejection holes, eliminating the need for separate air circulation equipment
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 air circulation system enhances plant growth by creating a healthier environment for the canopies, reducing mist volume requirements and facilitating robotic harvesting by improving airflow and plant handling efficiency.
Implementation Method 1
one or more fans mounted to the holder for forcing air through the air intake holes and the interior cavity
Implementation Method 2
air ejection holes for expelling air into an under-canopy region of the plants held by the holder
Data Source
AI summary
A bracket for holding a plurality of plant receptacles for use in an automated systems in an aqueous farming system that provides an under-canopy circulation system.