阅读说明：本技术 水培种植机的控制器 (Controller of water planting planter ) 是由 迪尔·格罗斯 瑞安·乔恩斯 克雷格·利文斯顿 本·凯利 于 2020-02-18 设计创作，主要内容包括：提供一种用于水培种植装置、系统和方法的控制器。所述控制器包括：可编程逻辑控制器,容纳在控制外壳内；以及图形用户界面,可由所述可编程逻辑控制器操作,并设置在所述控制外壳上。主屏幕具有一个或多个状态指示器,用于多个层面上的每个种子床。播种屏幕具有一个或多个播种控件,用于驱动播种器以将种子放置在所述多个层面的每个种子床上。收获屏幕具有一个或多个收获控件,用于自主控制从所述多个层面的每个种子床收获种子种植物。(A controller for a hydroponic growing apparatus, system and method is provided. The controller includes: a programmable logic controller housed within the control housing; and a graphical user interface operable by the programmable logic controller and disposed on the control housing. The main screen has one or more status indicators for each seedbed on multiple levels. The seeding screen has one or more seeding controls for driving a seeder to place seeds on each seed bed of the plurality of levels. The harvest screen has one or more harvest controls for autonomously controlling the harvesting of seed plants from each seed bed of the plurality of levels.)

1. A control system for a hydroponic seed planter having a plurality of levels, each level having a seedbed for hydroponically planting seeds, the control system comprising:

a programmable logic controller housed within the control housing;

a graphical user interface operable by the programmable logic controller and disposed on the control housing;

a home screen displayed by the graphical user interface, the home screen having one or more status indicators for each seedbed on the plurality of levels;

a seeding screen accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface, the seeding screen having one or more seeding controls for driving a seeder to place seeds on each seed bed of the plurality of levels;

a harvest screen accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface, the harvest screen having one or more harvest controls for controlling harvesting of seed plants from each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

2. The control system of claim 1, further comprising:

an irrigation screen accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface, the irrigation screen having one or more irrigation controls for controlling irrigation of each seedbed on the plurality of levels.

3. The control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a maintenance screen accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface, the maintenance screen having one or more seed planter controls for each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

4. The control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a cutting screen accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface, the cutting screen having one or more cutter controls for controlling cutting of seed plants unloaded from each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

5. The control system of claim 1, further comprising:

a duty cycle screen accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface, the duty cycle screen having one or more motor controls for each seedbed on the plurality of levels.

6. The control system of claim 5, wherein the one or more motor controls include at least one seeder motor and at least one harvest motor and a duty cycle parameter for each motor.

7. The control system of claim 2 wherein the one or more irrigation controls comprise at least one drip irrigation selection, at least one sprinkler selection, and at least one irrigation cycle time parameter.

8. The control system of claim 4, wherein the one or more cutter controls comprise at least one cutter motor, at least one fluid nozzle, and at least one cutter cycle parameter for cutting the unloaded seed plant.

9. A controller for a hydroponic seed planter having a plurality of levels, each level having a seedbed for hydroponically planting seeds, the controller comprising:

a housing configured to be operably connected to the hydroponic seed planter;

a display carried by the housing, the display having a graphical user interface for controlling the hydroponic seed planter;

at least one programmable logic controller housed within the housing for controlling the display, the graphical user interface, and the hydroponic seed planter;

A main menu displayed by the graphical user interface; at least one status indicator displayed by the graphical user interface with respect to seed plants of each seed bed on the plurality of levels; and at least one or more seed harvest controls displayed by the graphical user interface for controlling harvesting of seed plants from each seed bed on the plurality of levels.

10. The controller of claim 9, further comprising:

a seeding screen accessible from the main menu and displayed by the graphical user interface, the seeding screen having one or more seeding controls for driving a seeder to place seeds on each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

11. The controller of claim 9, further comprising:

a harvest screen accessible from the main menu and displayed by the graphical user interface, the harvest screen having one or more seed harvest controls for controlling harvesting of seed plants from each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

12. The controller of claim 9, further comprising:

an irrigation screen accessible from the main menu and displayed by the graphical user interface, the irrigation screen having one or more irrigation controls for controlling irrigation of each seedbed on the plurality of levels.

13. The controller of claim 9, further comprising:

a maintenance screen accessible from the main menu and displayed by the graphical user interface, the maintenance screen having one or more seed planter controls for each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

14. The controller of claim 9, further comprising:

a cutting screen accessible from the main menu and displayed by the graphical user interface, the cutting screen having one or more cutter controls for controlling cutting of seed plants unloaded from each seed bed of the plurality of levels.

15. The controller of claim 9, further comprising:

a duty cycle screen accessible from the main menu and displayed by the graphical user interface, the duty cycle screen having one or more motor controls for each seedbed on the plurality of levels.

16. A method of controlling a hydroponic seed planter having a plurality of levels, each level having a seed bed, for hydroponically planting seeds, the method comprising:

providing a control housing configured to be operably connected to the hydroponic seed planter;

Presenting a graphical user interface with a display carried by the control housing;

receiving operator input on the graphical user interface for controlling seed planting and harvesting on each seedbed of the plurality of levels of the hydroponic seed planter;

controlling the hydroponic seed planter with at least one programmable logic controller housed within the control housing to process operator input and output one or more control signals to one or more actuators of the hydroponic seed planter.

17. The method of controlling a hydroponic seed planter as claimed in claim 16, further comprising:

seeding on each seed bed of the plurality of layers using one or more seeding controls displayed by the graphical user interface.

18. The method of controlling a hydroponic seed planter as claimed in claim 16, further comprising:

harvesting seed plants from each seed bed on the plurality of levels using one or more harvest controls displayed by the graphical user interface.

19. The method of controlling a hydroponic seed planter as claimed in claim 16, further comprising:

cutting the unloaded seed plant from each seed bed on the plurality of levels using one or more cutter controls displayed by the graphical user interface.

20. The method of controlling a hydroponic seed planter as claimed in claim 16, further comprising:

irrigating seeds on each seed bed of the plurality of layers using one or more irrigation controls displayed by the graphical user interface.

Technical Field

The present disclosure relates to a controller of a hydroponic planter. In particular, but not exclusively, the present disclosure relates to a controller for a hydroponic growing apparatus, system and method.

Background

Hydroponic seed planting is of increasing interest for a variety of reasons. In some cases, the increasing cost of breeding has become prohibitive. Other breeding measures are rapidly becoming a major concern. The lack of planting seed inputs and the cost of these and other inputs are also responsible for the increased interest in planting seeds in hydroponics. Other concerns include labor costs, availability of labor, consistency of mature crops, reduced availability and increased cost of agricultural fields, reduced carbon emissions, food supply in densely populated areas, and public interest in food from a complete source. In addition, current hydroponic systems do not address the concerns and needs of current economic and efficient solutions for hydroponic planting of seeds.

Disclosure of Invention

It is, therefore, an object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a controller for hydroponic planting devices, systems, and methods that addresses the deficiencies of existing hydroponic and non-hydroponic seed planting processes.

In general, the development and marketing of hydroponic control systems have not regarded seed yield and return on investment as an indispensable factor. In other words, existing control systems are not easily adjustable to accommodate the size of the herd.

It is therefore another object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a controller for hydroponic planting devices, systems, and methods that is fully scalable to accommodate a particular desired seed yield and meet return on investment criteria considered, as compared to other hydroponic and non-hydroponic seed planting options.

An important factor in planting seeds is the cost of the input. The availability and cost of water is increasingly important. Water and/or liquid conservation is the most important issue in hydroponic and non-hydroponic seed planting. Other important and certainly related considerations include seed cost and preservation of the seed during hydroponic seed planting. Still other inputs or concerns include required workspace or footprint, required power, and the ability to adjust inputs and outputs according to need and cost, control the abundance/insufficiencies of the relevant inputs during hydroponic planting of seeds at lower operating costs in case of healthy or replete seeds growing for 365 days a year.

It is therefore another object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a controller for a hydroponic planting device, system, and method that maximizes the return on investment required to control the investment in hydroponic planting of seeds by providing a control scheme for each problem associated with the hydroponic planting of seeds process and other factors or problems.

It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a controller for a hydroponic planting device, system, and method that is designed to modulate the system to meet the changing needs of hydroponic seed planters while providing a cost effective solution for controlling the management of seed pre-and post-treatment, seed planting, and other inputs used in the process.

It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a controller for a hydroponic planter for small seeds or grains (e.g., barley and wheat, etc.) that can harvest autonomously or near autonomously within 3-7 days or for shorter or longer periods of time depending on the type of germinating seed or grain or the use of the end product.

It is a further object, feature, or advantage of the present disclosure to provide a fully automated controller that allows the system to harvest, clean, seed, and re-grow again by pressing a harvest button.

One or more of these and/or other objects, features, or advantages of the present disclosure will become apparent in the ensuing description and claims.

The present disclosure provides a controller of a hydroponic planter. The controller of the hydroponic planter is a controller for a seed planting system, apparatus and method.

The controller of the hydroponic system may be a controller for a seed planting system, including for example: a control system for a hydroponic seed planter having a plurality of levels, each level having a seedbed, for hydroponically planting seeds. The control system includes: a programmable logic controller housed within the control housing; and a graphical user interface operable by the programmable logic controller and disposed on the control housing. A home screen is displayed by the graphical user interface and includes one or more status indicators for each seedbed in the plurality of levels. A seeding screen is accessible from the main screen and is displayed by the graphical user interface. The seeding screen has one or more seeding controls for driving a seeder to place seeds on each seed bed of the plurality of levels. A harvest screen is also accessible from the main screen and displayed by the graphical user interface. The harvest screen has one or more harvest controls for controlling the harvesting of seed plants from each of the seed beds of the plurality of levels.

The controller of the hydroponic system may be a controller for a seed planting device, including for example: a controller for a hydroponic seed planter having a plurality of levels, each level having a seedbed for hydroponically planting seeds. The control system includes: a housing configured to be operably connected to the hydroponic seed planter; and a display carried by the housing. The display has a graphical user interface for controlling the hydroponic seed planter. At least one programmable logic controller is housed within the housing for controlling the display, the graphical user interface, and the hydroponic seed planter. A main menu is displayed by the graphical user interface. At least one status indicator for a seed plant of each seed bed on the plurality of levels is displayed by the graphical user interface. At least one or more seed harvest controls are displayed by the graphical user interface for controlling harvesting of seed plants from each seed bed on the plurality of levels.

The controller of the hydroponic system may be a control method for hydroponically planting seeds, for example, a control method for hydroponically planting various seeds. The method may include controlling a hydroponic seed planter having a plurality of levels, each level having a seed bed for hydroponically planting seeds. The method comprises the following steps: a control housing is provided that is configured to be operably connected to the hydroponic seed planter. A display graphical user interface is carried by the control housing. Receiving operator input on the graphical user interface for controlling seed planting and harvesting on each seedbed of the plurality of levels of the hydroponic seed planter. Controlling the hydroponic seed planter with at least one programmable logic controller housed within the control housing to process operator input and output one or more control signals to one or more actuators of the hydroponic seed planter.

Drawings

Examples of the present disclosure are described in detail below with reference to the attached drawing figures, which are incorporated herein by reference, wherein:

FIG. 1 is a perspective view of one side of a hydroponic planter and a controller for the hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of the other side of the hydroponic planter;

FIG. 3 is a view of one end of the hydroponic planter;

FIG. 4 is a view of the other end of the hydroponic planter;

FIG. 5 is a top perspective view of a seed tape in a loading position according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 6 is a top perspective view of a seed tape in an unloading position according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 7 is a perspective view of a seed tape return system of a hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

fig. 8 is a top view of the seed tape return system;

fig. 9 is an end view of the seed tape return system;

FIG. 10 is a perspective view of a seed tape drive system of an example hydroponic planter according to the present disclosure;

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of the seed tape drive system showing a single seed tape drive mechanism with an engaged clutch;

FIG. 12 is another perspective view of the seed tape drive system showing a single sub-tape drive mechanism with a separate clutch;

FIG. 13 is a top view of a cutter of a hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 14 is a bottom view of the cutter;

FIG. 15 is a perspective view of a seed dispenser system of a hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 16 is a perspective view of the seed dispenser system showing a single seed dispenser mechanism thereof;

FIG. 17 is a perspective view of the seed dispenser system showing a single seed dispenser mechanism thereof and a seed staging thereof;

FIG. 18 is a perspective view of a seed cleaner of a hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 19 is a side perspective view of a portion of the hydroponic planter, showing its lighting system;

FIG. 20 is a side perspective view of a portion of the hydroponic planter showing its irrigation system;

FIG. 21 is a side perspective view of a portion of the hydroponic planter showing another irrigation system thereof;

FIG. 22 is an end perspective view of a portion of the hydroponic planter further illustrating the irrigation system shown in FIG. 21;

FIG. 23 is a side perspective view of a portion of the hydroponic planter showing another irrigation system thereof;

FIG. 24 is a schematic view of liquid handling, treatment, collection and recirculation for the hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 25 is a schematic diagram of a controller, drive mechanism and power application system for the hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 26 is a schematic view of a seed and mature plant treatment and planting system for the hydroponic planter according to one example of the present disclosure;

fig. 27 is an illustration of a home screen according to one example of the present disclosure;

fig. 28 is an illustration of a harvest operation screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 29 is an illustration of an irrigation screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 30 is an illustration of an irrigation dispatch screen in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 31 is an illustration of an all-layers screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

figure 32 is an illustration of a level 1 screen according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 33 is a diagram of an input value window in accordance with an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 34 is an illustration of an advanced irrigation scheduling window according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 35 is an illustration of a general settings screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

fig. 36 is an illustration of a duty cycle setting screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

fig. 37 is an illustration of an advanced settings screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 38 is an illustration of an enter password window according to one example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 39 is an illustration of a maintenance mode screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

FIG. 40 is an illustration of a toggle screen according to an example of the present disclosure;

figure 41 is an illustration of a level 1 screen according to one example of the present disclosure; and

fig. 42 is a diagram of controller hardware in accordance with one example of the present disclosure.

Detailed Description

For example, the present disclosure provides a hydroponic growing apparatus, system and method. In general, hydroponic planting devices, systems and methods can be operated, configured and scaled according to demand and/or demand changes, according to the type and/or cost of input and/or changes in the type and/or cost of input, according to changes in the available floor area and/or available floor area to accommodate the hydroponic planting device, according to changes in the size and/or scale of the herd, according to changes in the amount of available labor and/or the amount of available labor, according to changes in climate and/or climate, according to changes in the allocable resources of the planting device and/or the allocable resources of the planting device. The following are exemplary aspects and illustrations of one or more hydroponic growth devices, systems and methods described in the present disclosure.

Water planting device

Fig. 1-42 illustrate an example hydroponic planter 10 and a controller 140 for the hydroponic planter 10. The planter 10 shown in the figures includes a plurality of vertical members 12 and a plurality of horizontal members 14 that are removably interconnected to form an upright seed planting station 16 having one or more seed beds 18. Each vertical member 12 may be configured with a height adjustable foot 20 at the bottom. The controller 140 may be operatively connected to the vertical member 12. Each foot 20 is adjustable to vary the relative vertical position or height of one vertical member 12 of the seed planting station 16 relative to the other vertical member 12. Horizontal member 14 may be configured to include one or more cross members that removably interconnect with one or more longitudinal members 24. The controller 140 may be operably connected to the horizontal member 14. The pair of vertical members 12 are laterally spaced apart by a cross member 22 to define the width or depth of the seed planting station 16. In at least one example of the planter 10, the cross member 22 can be configured such that the width/depth of the seed planting station 16 can be in the range of two feet to eight feet, and can be wider for a particular application. In one example, the planting platforms 16 are six feet wide. Other configurations of the planter 10 can contemplate widths/depths in excess of 6-8 feet based on, for example, the desired seed output and the footprint of the structure housing the planter 10. Where a narrower width/depth is desired, the cross member 22 may be configured such that the width/depth of the seed planting station 16 is less than six feet, and even less than two feet for certain applications. The components 12, 14, 22, and 24, including other components comprising the planter 10, may be made from stainless steel, low carbon steel (powder coated), low carbon steel (galvanized), galvanized steel, hot-dip galvanized steel, and similar metal/metal-alloy compositions, but are not limited to those specifically mentioned herein. The components of the planter 10 can include a baked powder paint, a liquid coating paint, a hot galvanized finish, and/or a stainless steel finish. All contemplated parts may be laser cut to precise CAD drawing specifications, bent into the appropriate shape, and powder sprayed or galvanized or painted, for example, in the case of mild steel. Thus, the planter 10 is less maintainable and can be used for long periods of time in a variety of environments, including corrosive environments. In addition, each cross member 22 is desirably removably interconnected with the vertical members 12 by a connector 26 (e.g., a tongue and groove connection) to allow for quick assembly, disassembly, and reassembly of the planter 10. Although tongue and groove connections are specifically noted, the present disclosure contemplates other connectors, fittings, and attachment devices for interconnecting the components, subcomponents, and assemblies of the present disclosure. For example, a slot and/or bolt arrangement can be used to removably secure components of the planter 10 together. Horizontal member 14 may include a cross member 22 and a longitudinal member 24. As described herein, cross member 22 is also described as a transverse member. The longitudinal members 24 are removably interconnected with the transverse members 22 by one or more connectors 26. Desirably, the cross member 22 is removably interconnected with the longitudinal members 24 by a tongue and groove connection to allow for quick assembly, disassembly, and reassembly of the planter 10. Although tongue and groove connections 26 are specifically noted, the present disclosure contemplates other connectors, fittings, and attachment devices for interconnecting the components, subcomponents, and assemblies of the present disclosure. The longitudinal members 24 are substantially equally spaced laterally along the depth/width direction of the seed planting station 16. According to at least one example, the longitudinal members 24 are spaced apart by up to 6 inches or less to best carry the weight of each seedbed 18. Other spacing distances of the longitudinal members 24 are contemplated. For example, the longitudinal members 24 may be spaced less apart (e.g., three inches apart) or more apart (e.g., eight inches or more apart). The spacing of the longitudinal members 24 provides a sub-floor for supporting the seedbed 18.

The length of the vertical member 12 generally determines the height of the seed planting station 16. By adjusting the height of the vertical member 12, the height of the seed planting station 16 can be adjusted. The height of the seed planting stations 16 may be configured, for example, according to the desired seed output and available floor space of the structure housing the planter 10. The vertically configured seed planting station 16 may be configured with one or more seed beds 18. In at least one configuration, the seed planting station 16 can be configured with 1-6 seed beds 18. In another configuration, the seed planting station 16 may be configured with 1-7 seed beds 18. In another configuration, the seed planting station 16 may be configured with more than 6 seed beds 18. The number of seedbeds 18 can be increased or decreased as needed and as the available floor space of the structure housing the planter 10. In some cases, the seed planting station 16 may be configured with more than 7, more than 8, or even more than 9 seedbeds 18, or even more than 12 seedbeds 18. Depending on altitude, added nutrients, irrigation, lighting, etc., the seeds can grow to full maturity in a hydroponic manner in about 5-7 days. The number of seedbeds 18 can be configured based on the time required for the seed to grow into a mature plant. For example, if seed growth occurs within a 6 day period, the planter 10 can be configured with 6 seedbeds 18 such that mature plants can be harvested from one seedbed 18 each day of the 6 day feeding cycle. For a 7 day feeding period, the planter 10 can be configured with 7 seedbeds 18, with one bed 18 harvested per day. If more mature plants are desired, the operator may increase the planting time per bed 18. For example, with a 6 day planting cycle per seedbed 18, the resulting mature plants are suitable for feeding all types of medium to large animals, such as cattle, horses, large pigs, sheep, goats, and the like. Similarly, mature plants produced using a 3 day planting cycle per seedbed 18 are suitable for feeding small and medium animals, such as poultry and swine. The spacing between the seedbeds 18 can also determine the number of seedbeds 18 in the seed planting station 16 in situations where vertical space is limited. For example, when the vertical spacing is limited, increasing the spacing between the seedbeds 18 can reduce the number of seedbeds 18 in the seed planting station 16. Alternatively, decreasing the spacing between the seed beds 18 may increase the number of seed beds 18 of the seed planting station 16 when the vertical spacing is limited.

The length of the seed planting station 16 is generally determined by the length of the horizontal member 14. A pair of vertical members 12 are removably interconnected by one or more horizontal members 14 to form a span of a seed planting station 16. Like the flat supports, the horizontal members 14 are generally configured to form a sub-floor of the seedbed 18. The length of the seedbed 18 is generally determined by the length of the horizontal member 14. In at least one configuration, horizontal member 14 is eight feet in length. The planting station 16 may be constructed of one or more 8 foot sections 25. The length of the segment 25 may vary from a length of more than eight feet or less than eight feet. In one example, each segment is eight feet in length. For example, the planting stations 16 may be configured as one 8 foot section, two 8 foot sections, three 8 foot sections, four 8 foot sections, five 8 foot sections, six 8 foot sections, or more. This means that the seed planting stations 16 can be configured to have a total length of 8 feet, 16 feet, 24 feet, 32 feet, 40 feet, 48 feet, or more. Of course, other lengths are contemplated depending on the desired seed planting yield and the available footprint of the structure housing planter 10.

The size of the seed planting stations 16 may be configured according to need, desired yield of planted plants, available floor space of the structure housing the planter 10, and the like. Each component of the seed planting station 16 is configured such that the seed planting station 16 is adjustable, thereby providing an expandable planter 10. For example, the length of the seedbed 18 can be configured as needed, desired yield of planted plants, available floor space for the structure housing the planter 10, etc. In at least one configuration, the length of each segment 25 of the seedbed 18 can be extended from 8 feet to 16 feet, 16 feet to 24 feet, 24 feet to 32 feet, 32 feet to 40 feet, 40 feet to 48 feet, etc., by increasing the number of 8 foot segments 25. Alternatively, the length of the seedbed 18 can be configured by varying the length of the seedbed 18, i.e., by reducing the number of 8-foot segments 25, from 48 feet to 40 feet, 40 feet to 32 feet, 32 feet to 24 feet, 24 feet to 16 feet, 16 feet to 8 feet, etc., depending on the need, desired yield of planted plants, available floor space of the structure housing the planter 10, etc. Although dimensions are provided herein, the present disclosure contemplates other increments of scalability of the planter 10. The type of connector 26 allows the planter 10 to be quickly assembled, disassembled, and reassembled. Moreover, the overall design of the connector 26 and planter 10 allows the size/scale of the planter 10 to be quickly expanded or reduced to accommodate the need, desired yield of planted plants, available footprint of the structure housing the planter 10, and other considerations set forth herein. For example, the planter 10 can be configured as an 8 foot seed planting station 16, and due to the highly scalable design, the planter 10 can quickly convert to a larger seed planting station 16, such as a sixteen, twenty-four, thirty-two, forty-eight foot or larger seed planting station 16. Similarly, larger seed planting stations 16 can be quickly reconfigured to smaller seed planting stations 16 to accommodate reductions in demand, changes in desired yield of planted plants, or changes in the available footprint of the structure housing planter 10, or changes in other considerations set forth herein. After assembly, it may be desirable to modify or level the seed planting station 16. The feet 20 are adjustable to adjust the level of each seed planting station 16.

Second, seed bed, seed belt and driving mechanism

Each seed bed 18 includes a seed tape 28, such as a seed film, operatively supported by the seed planting station 16. The seed tape 28 may be configured according to the width/depth of the seed planting station 16. For example, the width/depth of the seed tape 28 may vary depending on the variation in the width/depth of the seed planting station 16. The seed tape 28, such as a seed film, may be constructed of vinyl, polycarbonate, rubber, nitrile rubber, polyvinyl chloride, or other similar materials. The material of the seed tape 28 may be a film material composed of a polycarbonate or polypropylene material, such as that used for poultry litter tape. The material of the seed tape 28 may be hydrophobic, semi-hydrophobic or liquid permeable. In at least one example, a hydrophobic material may be used to retain liquid on the seed tape 28. In another example, a permeable or semi-permeable material may be used to allow liquid to pass through the seed tape 28. Both advantages and disadvantages are discussed herein. In one example, the seed tape 28 is intermittent and has separate or separated ends 32A and 32B. The seed tape 28 has a length that is at least the length of the seedbed 18, and is generally the width of the seedbed 18, and is configured to provide a seedbed for carrying seeds. The seed tape 28 is configured to move on the seedbed 18. A seed tape 28 is disposed on and slid over the horizontal member 14. One or more runners or plates (not shown) may be provided between the seed tape 28 and the horizontal member 14 to allow the seed tape 28 to slide on the horizontal member 14 without getting caught or jammed. Additionally, one or more lubricants may be applied to the horizontal members 14 prior to installing the seed tape 28 or as the seed tape 28 is wound on the rollers 30.

To move the seed tape 28, an end 32A of the seed tape 28 is operatively attached to the roller 30. The rollers 30 are disposed at the end of the seedbed 18 across the width between the pair of vertical members 12. During movement of the seed tape 28 in the first direction, the seed tape 28 is wound onto the roller 30. The end 32B of the seed tape 28 is provided with a coupling 34. The attachment 34 is preferably fixed over the width of the end 32B of the seed tape. The seed tape 28 is unwound from the roller 30 by pulling the end 32B of the seed tape 28 in a second direction opposite the first direction. In this manner, the end 32B moves in first and second opposite directions along the length of the seedbed 18 to accomplish the purposes discussed herein. Although the present disclosure contemplates the seed tape 28 being configured as a discontinuous tape having separate distinct ends, in at least one example of the present disclosure, the seed tape 28 may be configured as a discontinuous tape having ends 32A and 32B that are separate from one another and interconnected by a connector 34. The connector 34 may be a cable, wire, rope, bracket, or other similar connecting member. One or more connectors 34 may be connected between the ends 32 of the seed tape 28. The seed tape 28 and the coupling member 34 together may constitute a continuous tape. Thus, the seed tape 28 includes a cushion portion 36 and a connecting portion 34. A seed tape 28 is supported by the seedbed 18. The cushion 36 and one or more connectors 34 of the seed tape 28 may be operatively supported by the seed bed 18. The mat portion 36 of the seed tape 28 is wound on the roller. In one example, the roller 30 may be configured as a pulley. In one example, the position of the roller 30 is adjustable along the end of the seed bed 18 to better track the seed tape 28 as the seed tape 28 is wound on the roller 30 and unwound from the roller 30. Although pulleys are described in this disclosure, other roller types are contemplated for supporting rotation, alignment and tracking of the seed tape 28 as it moves. The end 32B of the seed tape 28 may be provided with a push rod 35, the push rod 35 being operatively attached to move with the end 32B as the seed tape is wound on the roller 30. A push rod 35 is provided along the width of the seed tape 28 and helps to support the movement of the seed tape toward the rollers 30 and stabilize the end 32B of the seed tape 28 as the seed tape 28 moves in the first and second directions.

Rotation of the roller 30 and movement of the seed tape in a first direction may be accomplished using a drive mechanism 37A, the drive mechanism 37A being operatively connected or configured to rotate the roller 30. Movement of the connector 34 and the push rod 35 connected to the end 32B of the seed tape 28, along with the end 32B of the seed tape 28, in the second direction may be accomplished using a drive mechanism 37B, the drive mechanism 37B being operatively connected or configured to rotate the spool 31. The cable 33 of the tape return system 26 is wound on the reel 31 for moving the seed tape 28 in a second direction. The cable 33 is operatively attached to the connector 34 and the reel 31 for moving the seed tape 28 in a second direction under operation of the drive mechanism 37B. The drive mechanisms 37A and 37B may be electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or even manual motors. In one example, the drive mechanisms 37A and 37B are motors powered by a power source remote from the seed planting station 16 or associated with the seed planting station 16. The motor may be a high torque motor such as a 12VDC, 10+ amp motor operating intermittently. For example, the drive mechanism 37A may be electrically connected to an independent power source and a 16V motor, instead of a 12V motor, for moving the heavier load on the seed tape 28 during harvesting. The motor may be controlled by the controller 140. The clutch 29A may be disposed between the drive mechanism 37A and the rollers 30 to control the torque at the rollers 30. The clutch 29B may also be disposed between the drive mechanism 37B and the spool 31 to control torque at the spool 31. Clutches 29A and 29B may be electrically, pneumatically, hydraulically or manually actuated. In one example, the clutches 29A and 29B are pneumatically driven by pneumatic sources 74A and 74B to engage and disengage the opposing clutch plates 27A and 27AA and clutch plates 27B and 27 BB. The clutch plates of each clutch may have a planar, undulating or toothed surface profile. The power (e.g., pneumatic sources 74A and 74B) for operating drive mechanism 37A, drive mechanism 37B, and clutches 29A and 29B may come from any number of power sources. For example, the seed planting station 16 may be operably configured with a power source that is an Alternating Current (AC) source or a Direct Current (DC) source, such as an electrochemical power source or a power storage device 138. Other sources of power are contemplated including, but not limited to, solar power, grid power, self-generating power, or manual operation. In one example, the power converter 136 is used to convert alternating current to direct current. The dc power output by the power converter 136 is used to power the planter and the electrical system that operates the planter. There are several benefits to using direct current to operate the planter 10, including: for example, the possibility of an operator or maintenance personnel suffering a fatal electric shock is minimized/eliminated. Additionally, one or more electrochemical cells or power storage devices 138, such as batteries, may be charged with alternating current and discharged during a power outage to provide power to the planter 10. In one example, the planter 10 can operate without power or during a power outage for 12 to 16 hours or more.

When the seed tape 28 is moved in a first direction, the clutch 29A operatively connected between the roller 30 and the drive mechanism 37A is engaged (i.e., the clutch plates 27A and 27AA are clamped together, see FIG. 11), the clutch 29B operatively connected between the drive mechanism 37B and the spool 31 is disengaged (i.e., the clutch plates 27B and 27BB are released from one another, see FIG. 8), the seed tape 28 is wound on the roller 30 by the drive of the drive mechanism 37A, and the cable 33 of the connector 26 is unwound from the spool 31. Conversely, when the seed tape 28 is moved in the second direction, the clutch 29A operatively connected between the roller 30 and the drive mechanism 37A disengages (i.e., the clutch plates 27A and 27AA are disengaged from one another, see FIG. 12), the clutch 29B operatively connected between the drive mechanism 37B and the spool 31 engages (i.e., the clutch plates 27B and 27BB are clamped together, see FIG. 9), the seed tape 28 is unwound from the roller 30, and the cable 33 of the coupler 26 is wound onto the spool 31 by the drive of the drive mechanism 37B. By operating the drive mechanism 37A or 37B the seed tape 28 is moved between the unloading position and the loading position and successive positions in between. When the seed tape 28 is above the seed bed 18 and the end 32B is adjacent the reel 31, the seed tape 28 is in the "loading position" (see, e.g., FIG. 5). Conversely, when the end 32B is adjacent the roller 30 and the seed tape 28 is wound on the roller 30, the seed tape 28 is in the "unloaded position" (see, e.g., FIG. 6). One or more limit switches may be disposed near the opposite end of the seedbed 18. A limit switch is operatively mounted to monitor the movement of the seed tape 28. The limit switch may be activated by one or more switch elements 45 operatively connected to the connector 34 or pusher bar 35 on the end 32B of the seed tape 28. In one example, a limit switch may monitor the position of the tip 32B relative to the roller 30 and spool 31. For example, when the tip 32B is adjacent the roller 30, the drive mechanism 37A may be closed and/or the clutch 29A disengaged to stop movement of the seed tape 28. Conversely, when the end 32B is proximate the spool 31, the drive mechanism 37B of the tape return system 26 may be closed and/or the clutch 29B disengaged to stop movement of the seed tape 28. Prior to moving the seed tape 28, the controller 140 may activate the drive mechanism 37A and/or the drive mechanism 37B to remove tension from the seed tape 28 to allow the clutch 29A and/or the clutch 29B to engage or disengage the respective drive mechanism 37A or 37B. Each clutch 29A and 29B may include one or more sensors to verify the clutch position to prevent the drive mechanism 37A from moving the seedbed 28 before the clutch 29B is disengaged from the drive mechanism 37B, or to prevent the drive mechanism 37B from moving the seedbed 28 before the clutch 29A is disengaged from the drive mechanism 37A. The process of monitoring and controlling the movement of the seed tape 28, monitoring and controlling the drive mechanisms 37A-B, monitoring and controlling the clutches 29A-B may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

Liquid application to seeds

Each of the seed beds 18 includes a liquid applicator 38A, 38B and 38C operatively disposed above each of the seed beds 18 for irrigating the seeds disposed above each of the seed tapes 28. The liquid applicator 38A is disposed adjacent at least one longitudinal edge of the seed tape 28. The liquid applicator 38A may also be operatively configured adjacent at least one lateral edge of the seed tape 28. Preferably, the liquid applicator 38A is configured adjacent a longitudinal edge of the seed tape 28 to provide drip-flood irrigation of the seed tape 28 and the seed placed on the seed tape 28. The liquid applicator 38A includes a liquid guide 39 and a liquid dispenser 40A having a liquid outlet 42, the liquid outlet 42 having a generally undulating profile, such as a sawtooth or wavy profile, typically having peaks (higher height) and valleys (lower height). Liquid applicator 38A may include a liquid line 41A configured to deliver liquid from a liquid source 43 (e.g., liquid collector 46 or a piped liquid source 43). The liquid exits the liquid line 41A through one or more openings and is harvested by the liquid guide 39 and the liquid distributor 40A upon exiting the liquid line 41A. The one or more openings in the liquid line 41A may be configured as liquid drippers, intermittently dripping a known or quantifiable amount of liquid into the liquid guide 39 within a set time frame. The one or more openings may be arranged intermittently along the length of the fluid line 41A, or dispersed in groups along the length of the fluid line 41A. One or more openings in the fluid line 41A may be operatively configured to evenly distribute water to the seedbeds 18 and slowly drip fluid onto each seedbed 18. It is important to keep the seeds soaked during the early stages of hydroponic cultivation. The seed tape is drip irrigated by operation of the liquid applicator 38A to provide a layer of water 47 for saturating the seed. The liquid applicator 38A may be operated manually or automatically using one or more controllers operated by the controller 140. The process of irrigating the seed with the liquid applicator 38A by controlling the position of the one or more liquid valves on and off may be automated by the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

Drip or flood irrigation may provide liquid to the seeds on the seedbed 18 at a controlled, evenly distributed flow rate. The liquid distributor 40A may be provided with a liquid guide 39 (e.g., a hood) for collecting liquid as it exits the liquid line 41A. The collected liquid is evenly distributed by the liquid distributor 40A and exits the liquid distributor 40A via the liquid outlet 42 onto the seed tape 28. According to at least one example, the liquid flows through the valleys (lower level) of the liquid outlets 42 onto the seed tape 28. In this way, the outflowing liquid is evenly distributed over the seed tape 28. The liquid applicator 38A is generally configured to irrigate the seed tape 28 from the longitudinal edge of the seed tape 28. The liquid applicator 38A may be operatively disposed along the longitudinal edge of the seed tape 28 at a generally higher elevation than the seed tape 28. In one example, the liquid dispenser 40A is operatively configured to extend inwardly from the longitudinal edge of the seed tape 28 such that the liquid outlet 42 is positioned further away from the longitudinal edge of the seed tape 28 in a direction toward the center of the seed tape 28. In another example, the liquid distributor 40A may be configured with a descending profile to promote liquid flow toward the liquid outlet 42. According to at least one design, the liquid flowing from the liquid dispenser 40A flows above the seed tape 28, under and/or between seed boluses on the seed tape 28. Other configurations of the liquid applicator 38 are also contemplated herein. For example, in one design, liquid enters the liquid applicator 38 through the liquid line 41A and exits the liquid line 41A through a plurality of openings. The liquid from the liquid line 41A collects in a small reservoir, creating an equilibrium distribution of liquid over the length of the liquid distributor 40A. When the small reservoir becomes full, liquid overflows the liquid outlet 42, for example between the teeth of the liquid outlet 42. In this manner, the liquid is evenly distributed along the entire length of each seedbed 18 of the seed planting station 16. From the liquid outlet 42, liquid drips onto the seed tape 28 of each seed bed 18 and flows under the mass of seeds on the seed tape 28 to hydrate the seeds. The root system of the seeds on the seed tape 28, in conjunction with the capillary effect, causes liquid to flow upwardly through the seeds to irrigate all of the seeds and/or plants.

A liquid applicator 38B is disposed above each seedbed 18. The liquid applicator 38B includes a plurality of liquid dispensers 40B operatively disposed in a liquid line 41B, the liquid line 41B in turn being operatively connected to a liquid source 43. The liquid dispenser 40B may be a spray head, such as a single or dual band spray head/tip, for spraying seeds disposed on each seed tape 28. In one example, a plurality of fluid lines 41B are disposed in a spaced apart arrangement above each seedbed 18. Each fluid line 41B traverses the length of the seedbed 18 and is connected to a source of fluid 43. Other fluid lines 41B may be configured to traverse the width of the seedbed 18. Liquid is discharged from each liquid dispenser 40B to spray the seeds on each seed tape 28. In another example, each fluid line 41B oscillates back and forth over a radius of 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or more to cover the entire surface area of the seeds on each seed tape 28. In the case of a liquid dispenser 40B that uses a dual angle spray head, the range of oscillation of each liquid line 41B may be reduced, thereby reducing friction, wear, and tear on the liquid applicator 38B. A drive mechanism 37C may be operatively connected to each fluid line 41A for oscillating or rotating each line through a range of radii. The liquid applicator 38B may be operated manually or automatically using one or more controllers operated by the controller 140. The process of irrigating the seed tape 28 using the liquid applicator 38B may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

A liquid applicator 38C is disposed above each seedbed 18. The liquid applicator 38C includes a plurality of liquid dispensers 40C that are operably disposed in a liquid line 41C, with the liquid line 41C being operably connected to a liquid source 43. The liquid dispenser 40C may be a spray head, such as a single or double angle head, for spraying seeds disposed over each seed tape 28. In one example, a fluid line 41C is disposed above and generally across the width of each seedbed 18 adjacent the rollers 30 and seed dispenser 52. Each liquid line 41C is connected to a liquid source 43. Liquid is discharged from each liquid dispenser 40C for sprinkling the seeds immediately upon discharge from the seed dispenser 52 onto each seed tape 28. A fluid line 41C may be fixedly mounted below each seedbed 28. Alternatively, the fluid line 41C may oscillate back and forth like the fluid line 41B over a radius of 10, 15, 20, 25, 30, 35, 40, 45 or more to cover a greater surface area of seeds discharged from the seed dispenser 52 above each seed tape 28. Where dual band spray heads/tips are employed with the liquid dispenser 40C, the range of oscillation of each liquid line 41C may be reduced, thereby reducing friction, wear, and tear on the liquid applicator 38C. In the case where oscillation is required, a drive mechanism similar to the drive mechanism 37C that drives the liquid applicator 38B may be used to drive the liquid applicator 38C. The liquid applicator 38C may be operated manually or automatically using one or more controllers operated by the controller 140. The process of irrigating the seed tape 28 using the liquid applicator 38C may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

A liquid applicator 38D is disposed adjacent the roller 30 and includes one or more liquid dispensers 40D for directing liquid toward the seed tape 28 as the seed tape 28 is wound and unwound from the roller 30. The liquid applicator 38D is configured to clean the seed tape 28 of debris, contaminants, mold, fungus, bacteria, and other foreign/unwanted material prior to winding of the seed tape 28 on the roller 30. The liquid applicator 38D is also configured to clean the seed tape 28 of debris, contaminants, mold, fungus, bacteria, and other foreign/unwanted material as the seed tape 28 is unwound from the roller 30. The liquid distributor 40D may be a spray head, such as a single or double angle head for the spray roller 30. The liquid line 41D is connected to a liquid source 43. In one example, the liquid provided to the liquid applicator 38D may include one or more additives or disinfectants, such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, to kill bacteria, fungi, or mold on the seed tape 28. In one example, hydrogen peroxide is used as the sterilizing agent to kill mold spores, fungi, or bacteria while preventing the beneficial bacteria present on the seed tape 28 from being destroyed during the sterilization process. The liquid applicator 38D may also be used to rinse the seeds with a sanitizing agent as the seeds are released from the seed dispenser 52 onto the seed tape 28. The sanitizing agent may be used to sanitize the seeds on the seed tape 28. The time delay operable by the controller 140 can be used to allow the disinfectant to remain on the seeds for a desired time and then irrigate with fresh water. The liquid applicator 38D may be operated manually or automatically by one or more controllers operated by the controller 140. The process of cleaning, descaling, and disinfecting the seed tape 28 using the liquid applicator 38D may be automated by the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

The duration and timing of the application of the liquid using the liquid applicators 38A-D may be automated by the controller 140, graphical user interface, and/or remote control. The liquid applicator 38A may be operated immediately after the seedbed 28 is planted to saturate the seeds with liquid. The liquid applicator 38A may be used to irrigate seeds at early, mid and late stages of growth. The liquid applicator 38B may also be operated immediately after the seed bed 28 is planted to saturate the seeds with liquid. Seeds in early, mid and late stages of growth may also be irrigated using liquid applicator 38B. The liquid applicators 38A-D may operate simultaneously, intermittently, alternately, and independently of each other. During the early stages of seed growth, both liquid applicators 38A-B operate to best saturate the seed to promote germination. During later stages of growth, the liquid applicator 38A may be used more than the liquid applicator 38B for irrigation. Alternatively, the liquid applicator 38B may be used more than the liquid applicator 38A for irrigation depending on the degree of saturation of the seed growth. The liquid applicator 38C may be operated during the sowing of the seedbed 28 and the movement of the seedbed 28 in the second direction to spray the seeds dispensed above the seedbed 28 to saturate the seeds with liquid. In one example, the liquid provided to the liquid applicator 38C may include one or more additives or disinfectants, such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, to kill bacteria, fungi, or mold in the seed. In one example, hydrogen peroxide is used as a disinfectant to kill mold spores, fungi, or bacteria while preventing beneficial bacteria in the seed from being destroyed during the disinfection process. The liquid provided to the liquid applicators 38A-D may include additives, such as disinfectants and/or nutrients. Nutrients, such as well-known plant nutrients, may be added to the liquid dispensed from the liquid applicators 38A-D to promote the growth of healthy plants and/or to increase the desired nutrients in the harvested seed. The liquid applicators 38C-D may also be used to sterilize the seed tape 28 before and/or after the seed tape 28 is wound on the roller 30 or unwound from the roller 30.

The liquid dispensers 38A-D and their components, as well as other components of the planter 10, can be sterilized by adding one or more sterilizing agents to the liquid used by each of the liquid dispensers 38A-D. For example, the fluid guides 39, fluid lines 41A-D, fluid outlets 42, drainage troughs 44, fluid collectors 46, seed tapes 28, fluid dispensers 40A-C, and other components of the planter 10 can be sterilized by adding one or more disinfectants to the fluid used by the planter 10. In another example, the liquid applicators 38A-D can be used to clean and sterilize the seed tape 28 before, during, or after sowing and harvesting. A separate liquid distributor or manifold may be provided to disinfect or clean any components of the planter 10 that carry liquids for irrigation and cutting, or that receive irrigation or cutting runoff from one or more of the seedbed 18 and cutters 100.

Fourth, illumination

Each seed bed 18 includes one or more illumination elements 48 containing lights 49 for illuminating the seeds on the seed tape 28 to facilitate hydroponic growth of the seeds or clumps of seeds on the seed tape 28. The illumination element 48 is operably positioned directly/indirectly above each seedbed 18. The controller 140 may be used to turn the lighting elements 48 off and on for each layer. The lighting elements 48 may be powered by an electrochemical power source or power storage device 138, an electrical outlet, and/or solar energy. In one example, the lighting elements 48 are powered by a DC power source. Contemplated lighting elements 48 include, for example, halogen, sodium, fluorescent, and LED strips/panels/strings, but are not limited to those explicitly provided herein. One or more reflectors (not shown) may be used to redirect light from a remote light source not disposed above each seedbed 18. The lighting elements 48 may be operatively controlled by a controller 140, a timer, a user interface, or a remote control. Operation of the lighting elements 48 can be triggered by one or more operations of the planter 10. For example, operation of the seed tape 28 may trigger operation of the illumination element 48. The illumination process of the seedbed 18 can be automated through the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control. In one example, the lighting elements 48 are low thermal emission, full Ultraviolet (UV) spectrum light emitting diodes that are periodically turned off and on by the controller 140, preferably 18 hours and 6 hours off in a 24 hour period.

Fifth, seeding

The figures provide an illustration of one example of the illustrated planter 50. The seeder 50 includes a seed dispenser 52, the seed dispenser 52 having an intake 54 connected to a seed source 66 (e.g., a seed funnel) and a discharge 56 for dispensing seed onto the seed tape 28. The seed dispenser 52 may be configured to extend along the width of the seedbed 18 and be positioned above each seedbed 18 near the end of each seedbed 18 adjacent the roller 30 or adjacent the spool 31. In one example, a seed dispenser 52 is disposed on each seed bed 18 adjacent the roller 30 to dispense seeds onto the seed tape 28 as the seed tape 28 is unwound from the roller 30 and the tip 32B is pulled toward the spool 31. An auger 58 (e.g., a flexible auger) is disposed within the intake 54 and is driven by the drive mechanism 37D for metering seed from the seed source 66 out of the metering aperture 55 and the discharge aperture 56. Each seed dispenser 52 is rotatably attached to the seed bed 18 and rotated by the drive mechanism 37E between a first position in which the discharge opening 56 is disposed immediately adjacent the seed tape 28 and the seed dispenser 52 is oriented more vertically, and a second position in which the discharge opening 56 is above the seed tape 28 and is oriented more horizontally. The seed dispenser 52 may include one or more veins, ridges, channels, conduits or elements 61 spaced between the auger 58 and the discharge opening 56 for directing the seeds from the auger 58 to the discharge opening 56 in a desired pattern or direction to further control metering of the seeds onto the seed tape 28. A support plate 60 may be operatively attached at the discharge port 56 of each seed dispenser 52 to support and properly space the discharge port 56 of the seed dispenser 52 on and relative to the seed tape 28 as the seed is dispensed onto the moving seed tape 28. A seed rake 62 may also be operatively connected at the discharge port 56 of each seed dispenser 52 to rake the seeds evenly across the width of the seed tape 28 as the seeds are dispensed onto the moving seed tape 28. Seed rakes 62 divide the seeds into furrows to enhance irrigation. The drive mechanisms 37D and 37E may be electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or even manual motors. In one example, the drive mechanisms 37D and 37E are pneumatically driven by compressed air from a pneumatic source 74. In the case of the drive mechanism 37E, an air cylinder may be operatively attached to the seedbed 18 and the seed dispenser 52 for rotating the discharge port 56 between the first and second positions. A pneumatic drive mechanism may be provided centrally across the width of each seed bed 18 to best support the weight and movement of the seed dispensers 52. The drive mechanism 37E may be operated by compressed air from a pneumatic source 74. The process of metering out seeds with auger 58 by controlling drive mechanism 37D and rotating seed dispenser 52 by controlling drive mechanism 37E may be automated via controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control. Additionally, one or more sensors 69 may be disposed within the seed dispenser 52 to monitor the seed level within the seed dispenser 52. For example, when the seed level within the seed dispenser 52 falls below a certain level and is detected by a sensor, movement of the seed tape 28 may be stopped to wait for the seed dispenser 52 to refill with seed, ensuring a distribution of the seed level across the width of the seed tape 28 during sowing. The sensor 69 may be a pressure, light, sound or other type of sensor suitable for detecting the presence of a seed. The sensor 69 may be a switch, such as a pressure switch, light switch, acoustic switch, or other type of switch suitable for detecting the presence of a seed. Seeds filling the seed dispenser between the intake 54 and discharge 56 ports may trigger a sensor 69 indicating that the seed dispenser is full, thereby shutting down the auger 58 under the operational control of the controller 140. The sensors may be used in conjunction with one or more timers to reduce the number of sensors, relays, wiring, connectors, and other hardware. Feedback from one or more sensors 69 within the seed dispenser may be used to control the operation of the drive mechanism 37D. For example, when the seed level in the seed dispenser drops below a certain level, the drive mechanism 37D may be actuated to move seed into the seed dispenser 52 while the seed tape 28 is moving or stopped, filling the seed dispenser 52 with seed.

The seeder 50 also includes a seed conveyor 64 for conveying seeds from a seed source 66 to the intake 54 of each seed dispenser 52. The seed conveyor 64 may include one or more lengths of conduit operatively connected between a seed source 66 and the seed dispenser 52. The seed source 66 may be a seed funnel having a top end through which seeds enter the seed funnel. Seeds that may be considered include: for example, wheat, barley, alfalfa, clover, oat, sorghum, vegetables, peas, sunflowers, buckwheat, millet, hemp, micro-vegetables, short vegetables, and rye, but are not limited to those specifically provided herein. The seeds may include mixed seeds to produce a seed mixture having desired nutritional and digestion parameters. For example, seed mixtures (e.g., barley and pea) may be used to increase the nutrient content (e.g., omega content) in mature plants. Mature plants can be used in feed, vegetable oils, food preservatives and additives, medical uses, nutritional supplements, protein production, cosmetics and other uses. One or more sections of the conduits of the seed conveyor 64 may include an auger 68, such as a threaded or helical auger that rotates in situ, for moving seeds through the conduits of the seed conveyor 64. In another example, seeds are moved through the seed conveyor 64 using intermittently spaced individual spirals or shims 70 secured to pull wires 72 (which pull wires 72 are then pulled through the conduits of the seed conveyor 64 by the drive mechanism 37F). Compressed air from pneumatic source 74 may also be used to move the seeds through seed conveyor 64. The drive mechanism 37F may be an electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or even manual motor. The process of transporting seeds using the auger 68 or the spacer 70 by controlling the drive mechanism 37F may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

The seeder 50 can include a seed cleaner 76 operably disposed within the seed conveyor 64. Typically, the raw or bulk seeds contain debris and other contaminants. The seed cleaner 76 removes debris and contaminants from the seeds prior to delivery to the seed dispenser 52. The seed cleaner 76 includes a separator housing 78 having a seed inlet 80, a seed discharge 82, and one or more augers 84 disposed between the seed inlet 80 and the seed discharge 82, the augers 84 being disposed vertically within a conduit 86, the conduit 86 having the diameter of a helix 88. The spiral 88 is preferably discontinuous, leaving gaps between the intermittently spaced spiral segments to allow seeds, debris and contaminants to freely fall from one horizontal spiral to the next. A vacuum line 90 is operably connected at or near the seed inlet 80 and at the other end is connected to a vacuum source 92. The seeds enter the seed cleaner 76 through the seed conveyor 64 and through the seed inlet 80, descend the auger 88, and fall freely between the gaps in the auger 88 on each auger 84. Debris and contaminants are drawn into the vacuum line 90 and the seeds descend through the seed discharge port without debris and contaminants, which are drawn into the trash receptacle 94. The aspirated debris may be discharged onto conveyors 124, 126 and discharged with the cut mature plant parts. The debris is typically chaff in seeds that can be fed to the animal. The falling seeds have a greater mass than the debris and contaminants, thereby preventing the seeds from being sucked away by the vacuum line. A manually controlled or controller 140 controlled valve 98 on the vacuum line 90 may be opened to decrease or close to increase the suction in the separator housing 78. Cleaned seeds exit the seed discharge opening 82 and are mechanically conveyed through the seed conveyor 64 to a staging rack 96, the staging rack 96 being operatively connected in communication with each seed dispenser 52. Seeds are fed from the staging platform 96 into each of the seed dispensers 52 while the seeds are dispensed onto each of the seed tapes 28. During seed dispensing, the scaffolding 96 continues to fill with seed from the seed conveyor 64. In some cases, the seeds include large debris that cannot be aspirated without aspirating the seeds. A screen (not shown) may be operatively disposed at the seed discharge 82 to catch larger debris that is not drawn away as it passes through the seed cleaner 76. The one or more UV illumination elements may be operably configured to illuminate the seeds within the seed cleaner 76 with UV light to kill bacteria on the seeds. By controlling the open and closed positions of the valve 98, the illumination of the seeds with UV light, and the general operation of the seed cleaner 76, the process of cleaning the seeds with the seed cleaner 76 may be automated by the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

Sixthly, cutting

The figures provide an illustration of one example of the cutter 100. Each seedbed 18 includes a cutter 100. The cutter 100 includes a discharge plate 102, the discharge plate 102 being operatively attached to the planter 10 adjacent the roller 30 and extending across the width of the seedbed 18 for harvesting mature plants including germinated seeds, root pieces, stems and leaves. For the purposes of this disclosure, the term "mature plant" is used when referring to germinated seeds, root pieces, stems, and leaves. Harvested from planter 10 are mature plants. Returning to the discharge plate 102, the plate is configured to include opposing outer edges 103A-B, the outer edges 103A-B being spaced between an inlet side 104 and a discharge side 106. The width of the discharge plate is generally the same as the width of the seed tape 28. The inlet side 104 faces the seed tape 28 and is arranged next to the rollers 30 for receiving the unloaded mature plants. The discharge side 106 faces outwardly, extending away from the roller 30, for discharging cut mature plants. At least one high pressure liquid spray nozzle 108 is operatively attached to the top side of the discharge plate 102 and is disposed substantially in the center of the width and between the inlet side 104 and the discharge side 106. The liquid nozzles 108 are oriented to direct the high pressure liquid stream directly upward. One or more ports 107 extend through the discharge plate 102 along the width and between the discharge side 106 and the liquid nozzles 108. In one example, the port 107 is configured as a narrow channel having a width just sufficient to allow the flow of liquid therethrough, extending generally along the width of the unloader plate 102 and disposed between the nozzle 108 and the discharge side 106. On the underside of the unload plate 102 are at least two high pressure liquid nozzles 110, the high pressure liquid nozzles 110 being operatively mounted to a carrier 112, the carrier 112 being operatively attached to the underside of the unload plate 102. In one example, carrier 112 is operably attached to one or more guide shafts 113 using, for example, one or more slide bearings. The liquid nozzles 110 are oriented to direct high pressure liquid streams directly upward through ports 107 in the discharge plate 102. Drive mechanism 37G is operatively attached to carrier 112 to drive carrier 112 between the first and second positions. The drive mechanism 37G may be a high torque motor operating under ac or dc current, or may be a pneumatic/hydraulic motor or cylinder. In one example, the motor may be a 12VDC, 10+ amp motor that operates intermittently. Movement of the carrier 112 between the first and second positions moves a first one of the liquid nozzles 110 generally along one half of the port 107 and a second one of the liquid nozzles 110 generally along the other half of the port 107. Alternatively, a single liquid nozzle or a plurality of liquid nozzles may be mounted to the carrier 112 for cutting along the width of the unloaded mature plants. The drive mechanism 37G may be an electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or even manual motor. In one example, the drive mechanism 37G is driven by direct current power from a power source (e.g., a battery or an AC-DC power converter 136 plugged into a utility service line). One or more switches or sensors (not shown) may be operably configured to control the drive mechanism 37G to control movement of the vehicle 112 between the first and second positions in the first and second opposite directions. In one example, the carrier 112 moves in width on the underside of the unloader plate 102. In the first position of the carrier 112, a first one of the liquid nozzles 110 is located almost near the outer edge 103A, while a second one of the liquid nozzles 112 is located substantially in the center of the discharge plate 102. In the second position of the carrier 112, a first one of the liquid nozzles 110 is located approximately in the center of the discharge plate 102, while a second one of the liquid nozzles 110 is located almost near the outer edge 103B. During operation, the liquid nozzle 110 reciprocates back and forth between the first and second positions of the carrier by the drive of the drive mechanism 37G. The driving process of the drive mechanism 37G for moving the carrier 112 between the first and second positions may be automated by the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control. In this manner, in operation, the liquid nozzles 108 cut the unloaded mature plants in a first direction, while the liquid nozzles 110 cut the unloaded mature plants in a second direction opposite the first direction of the liquid nozzles 108.

In one example, the liquid nozzles 108 cut longitudinally along the midpoint of the unloaded mature plant, while the liquid nozzles 110 cut transversely along the width of the unloaded mature plant. In this manner, the unloaded mature plants are cut into smaller sections than the body of the mature plants on the seed tape 28. The length of each cut of mature plant can be controlled by increasing or decreasing the speed of the seed tape 28, or increasing or decreasing the reciprocation speed of the carrier 112. To increase the size of the cut pieces of mature plants, the speed of the seed tape 28 or carrier 112 may be reduced. Alternatively, to reduce the size of the cut pieces of mature plants, the speed of the seed tape 28 or carrier 112 may be increased. The process of controlling the drive mechanisms 37A and 37G to control the speed of the seed tape 28 and carrier 112 may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

As discussed herein, a carrier 112 having liquid nozzles 110 is operably secured to the underside of the unloader plate 102 and protected from liquid from the liquid nozzles 108 and 110 from below impact with a cover plate 114. The distance 115 between the release plate 102 and the cover plate 114 may be in the range of 5 to 8.5 inches, 4 to 7.5 inches, 6 to 9.5 inches. In one example, the distance 115 between the panels 102 and 114 is at least 8.5 inches to allow the taller mature plants to cut through between the panels 102 and 114.

A pump 116 (e.g., a high pressure pump) that receives liquid from liquid source 43 may be operably connected in liquid communication with liquid nozzles 110 and 112 using, for example, a flexible high pressure hose. The pump 116 may operate between 2000 and 2500psi in at least one mode. In another mode, the pump may operate at pressures below 2000psi or above 2500 psi. In one example, the pump 116 is configured to operate the liquid nozzle at a pressure of 2200psi at a liquid flow rate of 4 gallons/minute. One or more valves 118 (e.g., high pressure valves) may be connected between the liquid nozzle 108 and the liquid nozzle 110. The valve 118 may be manually or electronically controlled via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

Seventh, liquid application, treatment, collection and recycling

The figures provide illustrations of the liquid handling, collection and recycling of the planter 10. A liquid source 43 is required to supply liquid to the planter 10. One or more pumps are in fluid communication with the liquid source 43. In one example, high pressure pump 116 is in fluid communication with fluid source 43. Liquid nozzles 108 and 110 are in liquid communication with pump 116. One or more flexible high pressure hoses may be operably disposed between pump 116 and liquid nozzles 108 and 110. The pump 116 may operate between 2000 and 3000psi in at least one mode. In another mode, the pump may operate at pressures below 2000psi or above 3000 psi. In one example, the pump 116 is configured to operate the liquid nozzles 108, 110 at a liquid flow rate of 4 gallons/minute at 2200 psi. In another example, the pump 116 is configured to operate the liquid nozzles 108, 110 at a liquid flow rate of 4-6 gallons/minute at 2500 psi.

One or more valves 118 may be operatively connected between the pump 116 and the liquid nozzles 108 and 110 to control the flow of liquid to each nozzle on each seedbed 18. One or more drainage channels may be operably configured at each cutter 100 to collect liquid. The collected liquid may flow through one or more drain lines operatively connected between the drain trough and a sewer or liquid collector 46.

Pump 120 may also be in fluid communication with liquid source 43. The liquid applicator 38A, the liquid applicator 38B, the liquid applicator 38C, and the liquid applicator 38D may each be in liquid communication with the pump 120, either directly or through a liquid distribution manifold 132. One or more liquid conduits may be operably configured between the pump 120 and the liquid applicators 38A, 38B, 38C, and 38D to control the flow of liquid to each liquid applicator on each seedbed 18. One or more additive or disinfectant sources 134 may be in operable fluid communication with one or more or all of the liquid conduits disposed between the pump 120 and the liquid applicators 38A, 38B, 38C, and 38D. In one example, the disinfectant or additive source 134 is in operable fluid communication with a liquid conduit attached to the liquid applicator 38C and may be configured to contain one or more disinfectants, such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, to dispense the liquid disinfectant through the liquid applicator 38C. A drainage trough 44 is operably configured at each seedbed 18 to collect liquid from the liquid applicator 38A, the liquid applicator 38B, the liquid applicator 38C, and the liquid applicator 38D. The collected liquid may flow through one or more drain lines operatively connected between the drain channel 44 and a drain or liquid collector 46. For example, as the liquid flows through each seed tape 28 of each seedbed 18, it can be inclined toward the drainage trough 44, which any plant requiring liquid will utilize. Any unused liquid may continue to flow through the seed tape 28 and drain into the drainage groove 44. Once in the drainage channel 44, the liquid is piped into a liquid collector 46 or sewer depending on how the system is piped, based on owner/operator considerations. According to one design, the drain channel 44 may be operatively attached to the vertical member 12 of the planter 10, and the orientation of the drain channel 44 relative to the horizontal plane may be configured to control the flow of liquid in the drain channel 44 to an outlet or drain. The same system used to collect and recycle liquid from liquid applicator 38A can be used to collect and recycle liquid from liquid applicator 38B, liquid applicator 38C, liquid applicator 38D, and liquid applicator 38E. The liquid applicator 38E may be connected to the liquid line 41D to dispense liquid from the liquid dispenser 40E and spray the liquid into the drain tank 44 to clean the drain tank 44. The liquid dispensed from the liquid applicator 38E may include a disinfectant therein for disinfecting the drain channel 44.

The liquid collector 46 may be operatively connected to the drain tank 44 or other drain line of the planter 10 for collecting and recycling the runoff liquid for reuse or disposal. The liquid collector 46 may be configured with an open top to receive liquid flowing down the seedbed 18 disposed above. The liquid collector 46 may be operably connected to receive pump pressure from the pump 120 to recycle liquid collected from the liquid applicator 38A, the liquid applicator 38B, the liquid applicator 38C, the liquid applicator 38D, the liquid applicator 38E, and the cutter 100. The additives can be combined with the liquid in the liquid collector 46 and recycled to the liquid applicators 38A, 38B, 38C to irrigate the seeds with the liquid containing the desired additives. The liquid collector 46 may be configured as a settling tank in which sediment and other particulates are separated from the liquid before the liquid is recycled back to the liquid applicators 38A, 38B, 38C. Along with the small settling tanks, the liquid collector 46 may be configured individually as a multi-gallon tank, such as a 50 gallon, 75 gallon, 100 gallon, or larger capacity tank. The liquid collected in the liquid collector 46 may be retained and recycled within 24 hours, 48 hours, 72 hours, etc., and then dumped or discarded into a sewer. The liquid collector 46 may be configured with a fitting of overlying screen material (e.g., plastic screen) to capture debris and seeds, for example, to prevent them from entering the plumbing system of the seed planting station 16. The additives may be introduced directly or indirectly into the liquid applicators 38A, 38B, 38C, 38D, and 38E. Additives that may be considered include: for example, additives added to the tank to promote plant growth, to increase vitamins and minerals in the form of liquid feed, and/or to increase the nutritional value of seed growth, but are not limited to those specifically provided herein. One or more disinfectants, such as chlorine or hydrogen peroxide, may be introduced into the liquid applicator 38A, the liquid applicator 38B, and the liquid applicator 38C. Seed germination and growth nutrients may also be introduced into liquid applicator 38A, liquid applicator 38B, liquid applicator 38C, and liquid applicator 38D to support healthy development and growth of the seeds into mature plants. The process of treating, collecting, and recycling the liquid may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control.

Eight, treatment of cut mature plants

The cut mature plants fall under gravity from each seedbed 18 onto a conveyor 124. the conveyor 124 feeds into another conveyor 126. in one example, the conveyor 126 discharges into a vertical blender, skip car, cart, or other container for transporting the cut mature plants. The conveyor belts 124, 126 may be driven by a drive mechanism 37H. The drive mechanism 37G may be an electric, pneumatic, hydraulic or even manual motor. The process of transporting cut mature plants with the conveyor belts 124, 126 by controlling the drive mechanism 37G can be automated by the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control. In the event that it is desired to convey the cut pieces of mature plants upwardly to a higher elevation, the conveyor belt 126 may be configured with upstanding ridges to stabilize the cut pieces of mature plants on the conveyor belt 126 while rising. The shape of the conveyor 126 may be altered to further grasp and hold the cut pieces of mature plants steady as the conveyor 126 rises. For example, the ridges may be grooved so that the conveyor belt 126 may change from a flat shape to a U-shape to encircle a cut segment of a mature plant to prevent a stable plant segment from falling off the belt as the conveyor belt rises (e.g., up a steep slope). In the case of a side-by-side configuration of multiple planters, cut mature plants fall from each planter 10 onto conveyor 124 and then into conveyor 126.

Nine, power supply

A power supply 128, such as 110V or 220V service from an electric utility company, may be used to power the planter 10. The power source 128 may be from a renewable energy source, such as hydroelectric, biomass wood, biomass waste, biomass biofuel, wind energy, geothermal energy, and/or solar energy. The power supply 128 may be a dc or ac power supply. In one example, the planter 10 includes an AC/DC power converter 136 for powering one or more of the drive mechanisms 37A-H with direct current. According to at least one configuration, each of the one or more drive mechanisms 37A-H may receive direct current from a separate power converter 136 to drive one or more DC motors. Increasing the amperage of each motor as needed can increase the drive torque of each motor. Controlling the operation of each motor and the amperage of each motor may be automated via the controller 140, a graphical user interface, and/or a remote control. The use of a dc power source can reduce or eliminate electrical shocks or shocks that could cause injury or even death to the operator or owner of the planter 10. The power source 128 may be one or more electrochemical cells or a power storage device 138. The electrochemical cell or power storage device 138 may be charged by an electric utility or a renewable power source. In the event of a power outage, the planter 10 can operate using power from one or more electrochemical cells, the power storage device 138, and/or a renewable power source. The power source 128 may provide power for a pneumatic or hydraulic power source. In one example, the power source 128 operates a pneumatic source 74 (such as an air compressor) to pneumatically power one or more of the drive mechanisms 37A-H. In another example, the power source 128 operates a hydraulic source 130 (e.g., a hydraulic pump) for hydraulically powering one or more of the drive mechanisms 37A-H. The drive mechanisms 37A-H may also be manually operated in the event of a power source or mechanism failure. In one example, one or more of the drive mechanisms 37A-H may be powered by AC power from the power source 128. A power source 128 of the type described may be operably connected to drive clutches 29A-B, lighting elements 48, vacuum source 92, pump 116, and pump 120. The switches, relays, voltage regulators, and other electrical components, including but not limited to the drive mechanisms 37A-H, clutches 29A-B, lighting elements 48, vacuum source 92, pump 116, hydraulic pressure source 130, pneumatic source 74, and pump 120 of the planter 10, can be automated via the controller 140, graphical user interface, and/or remote control.

Ten, controller

The controller 140 is configured to operate the hydroponic planter 10. Fig. 27-42 provide illustrations. The controller 140 may include a display configured to display a home screen 142. The home screen includes an emergency stop 154, which may be a mechanical and/or electrical control button. Harvest 144, pause 146, and cancel 148 are illustrated controlling the operation of the hydroponic planter 10. The settings of the controller are accessed via the system settings 150 icon. The watering schedule of the planter 10 can be accessed using the view watering schedule 152 icon. Each seedbed 18 is represented by a level, such as level 156-166. The harvest icons 168-178 are used to perform the harvest function of the hydroponic planter 10 for each level 156-166. Operational indicators such as the planting data 180 190 indicate the time elapsed since each of the levels 156, 166 was planted or seeded by the seeding machine 50. The status indicators 192-202 provide the operational status of each of the levels 156-166. The current operation indicator 204 shows the operations that occurred at a certain activity level 156-166, such as "level 6 being harvested". The maintenance system of the hydroponic planter 10 is accessible via the maintenance icon 206. In at least one mode of operation of the controller 140, selection of the harvest 144 icon activates the harvest operation for the longest time level 156-166, which for illustrative purposes is level 6 166, as shown in the harvest operation window 208. Selecting one harvest icon 168-178 associated with each level 156-166 will initiate the harvest operation for the selected level regardless of the time elapsed after planting. The pause 146 and cancel 148 icons may be selected during a harvest operation selected using the harvest 144 icon. Similar pause 178 and start 172 icons may be selected during a harvest operation performed at a particular level. An emergency stop 154 may be selected at any time to immediately terminate any operation of the hydroponic planter 10. Upon selection of the harvest 144 icon, the controller 140 initiates a harvest operation that includes manipulating the seed tape 28 from the loading position to the unloading position to move the mature plants through the cutter 100 for cutting into selectively sized cuttings that are collected by the conveyor belt 124 and 126. After the harvesting operation is completed, the seeder 50 is operated to perform the seeding operation, while the tape return system 26 moves the seed tape 28 back to the loading position. By controlling the liquid applicators 38A-D, irrigation operations are initiated during and/or after seeding. Once a harvest operation is selected for a level 156-166, the controller 140 automatically initiates the operation. The harvesting operation may also be manually selected by an operator.

During irrigation, as shown by the irrigation window 210 and the current operation indicator 204, the temperature and humidity 212 and 222 indicators provide information about the planting environment obtained from one or more sensors on each level 156 and 166.

To access and control the irrigation schedule window 224 of the controller 140, a view watering schedule 152 icon may be selected from the home screen 142. Each level 156-166 shows the start time 230 of irrigation, the status of the last watering 232 and the irrigation system used, such as sprinkling irrigation using liquid applicator 38B or drip irrigation using liquid applicator 38A. The next watering 234 indicator displays the date and time of the next watering and the irrigation system to be used. For each level 156 & 166, the irrigation type, drip irrigation and/or sprinkler 236 & 246 may be selected and updated using the update 248 & 258 icon. The irrigation dispatch window 224 also includes dispatch settings 228, master 226, level 1, level 2, level 3, level 4, level 5 and level 6 icons for accessing the private irrigation screens of each level 156 and 166, the master 226 dispatch screen for controlling global irrigation characteristics, and the dispatch settings 228 screen as shown in the irrigation dispatch window 224. The back 260 icon may be used to access the home screen 142.

By selecting the master 226 icon on the schedule settings screen 228, the operator can access the all-floors screen 262 to control the global irrigation characteristics of the hydroponic planter 10. Changes to the properties on the all-floors screen 262 will change all of the floors 156-166. The irrigation schedule is divided by 1/4 segments 270 or 6 hour periods of the day. In each segment 1/4, an option is provided to vary the duration 280 of S-On 272 (i.e., sprinkler On), S-Off 274 (i.e., sprinkler Off), D-On 276 (i.e., drip On), and D-Off 278 (i.e., drip Off) 286. For example, watering records day 1/Qtr 2 (i.e., the second 6 hours of day 1), sprinkler on for 90 seconds (1.5 × 60 seconds), off for 600 seconds (10.0 × 60 seconds), and drip on for 120 seconds (2.0 × 60 seconds), off for 900 seconds (15.0 × 60 seconds) for all levels 264 (i.e., levels 156-. Irrigation after day 6 (i.e. after day 6 of the watering record) was scheduled for 30 seconds (0.5 × 60 seconds) for cyclic sprinkler irrigation, 2400 seconds (40.0 × 60 seconds) for cyclic sprinkler irrigation, 120 seconds (2.0 × 60 seconds) for cyclic sprinkler irrigation, and 3600 seconds (60.0 × 60 seconds) for cyclic sprinkler irrigation. Using the reset 266 icon, irrigation settings may be reset to default settings and new settings may be applied using the apply 268 icon. Selecting the back 260 icon may return to the previous screen. Irrigation controls may be configured to operate liquid applicators 38A-38D. For levels 156 & 166, there is the same irrigation control used to specify individual irrigation parameters for one or more levels 156 & 166 outside of the main control 226 irrigation settings. For example, by selecting the level 1 156 icon, the operator may access the level 1 screen 288 to specify irrigation parameters for the level 1 156. To change the duration 280- > 286 of any 1/4 segment 270, the operator may select it, whereupon an input value screen 290 having a value field 292 appears for entering a new duration 280- > 286. All of the deck screens 262 and the deck 1 screen 288 have high level 280 icons. Advanced irrigation scheduling screen 294 is accessible using advanced 280 icon. The advanced irrigation scheduling screen 294 provides a time period 280 plus 286 for S-On 272 (i.e., sprinkler On), S-Off 274 (i.e., sprinkler Off), D-On 276 (i.e., drip On), and D-Off 278 (i.e., drip Off), which allows the operator to control instructions 270 for the first 6 hours of watering after planting. The first 6 hours are most critical in watering, so the controller 140 includes a senior 280 that allows the duration 280 plus 286 to be changed to each hour length by entering a new value and selecting either the update 296 icon or the cancel 148 icon to leave the senior irrigation dispatch screen 294.

From the home screen 142, the operator may select the system settings 150 icon to access the general settings screen 298 of the controller 140. The general settings screen 298 includes fields for the current date and time 306, the light on time 308, and the light off time 310. The icons on the general settings screen 298 include general 300, duty cycle 302, advanced 304, 120VAC bypass 312, return 260, and application 268 icons. The illumination of the lighting elements 48 may be controlled by specifying a light-on time 308 and a light-off time 310. For example, the seed may be illuminated with illumination element 48 for 16-18 hours and turned off for 8-6 hours. The current date and time 306, in one example, may be updated manually, and in another example may be updated automatically, for example, by Wi-Fi when the controller 140 is automatically connected to Wi-Fi and the Wi-Fi router responds to the current date and time 306. By switching the 120VAC bypass 312 "on/off," the hydroponic planter 10 can operate using either AC or DC current. If the current date and time 306, light on time 308, or light off time 310 is changed, the new settings may be saved by selecting the application 268 icon or may be left intact by selecting the return 260 icon.

A duty cycle 302 icon is provided on the general settings screen 298 to access a duty cycle settings screen 314 to change the duty cycle of one or more of the drive mechanisms 37A-H. The duty cycle settings screen 314 includes general 300, duty cycle 302, high 304, return 260, and application 268 icons. The duty cycle settings of H-motor 318 (i.e., drive mechanism 37A) and S-motor 320 (i.e., drive mechanism 37B) during harvesting and the duty cycle settings of H-motor 322 (i.e., drive mechanism 37A) and S-motor 324 (i.e., drive mechanism 37B) during seeding are controllable on duty cycle setting screen 314 by the length of start time 316. In at least one example, the motor duty cycle is controlled as the seed tape 28 is wound up on the roller 30, increasing in diameter. The larger the diameter, the faster the seed tape 28 moves. To maintain a consistent speed, the H-motor 318 is phased, which causes the motor to intermittently stop and phase to maintain the same speed.

Advanced 304 icons are provided on the duty cycle settings screen 314 for accessing an advanced settings screen 326, which includes generic 300, duty cycle 302, advanced 304, return 260, and application 268 icons. Inputs for harvest return 328, seed return 330, drain spray duration 332, drain spray frequency 334, and enable sanitizer 336 are also provided on the advanced settings screen 326. By entering a value in the harvest return 328, the amount of travel (e.g., in seconds) of the seed tape past the tape sensor can be specified. During harvesting, mature plants are moved through the cutter 100 by moving the seed tape 28 from the loading position to the unloading position. To ensure that all mature plants pass through the cutter 100, the drive mechanism 37A continues to operate and move the seed tape for the time specified in the harvest return 328 field. Since the tape travel sensor is approximately 6-8 inches from the cutter 100, the seed tape will continue to travel after the sensor is triggered so that all of the mature plant material passes through the cutter 100. Thus, as shown, the harvest return 328 is set to 18 seconds, which means that the drive mechanism 37A will continue to run for 18 seconds after the seed tape sensor adjacent the cutter 100 is triggered. The sowing retraction indicates the time before sowing of the seed tape 28 begins when the drive mechanism 37B will be operated, thereby moving the seed tape from the unloading position back to the loading position before the seed dispenser is rotated from the generally horizontal position to the generally vertical position with its discharge opening 56 rotated to be adjacent to or in contact with the seed tape 28. The gutter spray frequency 334 may be tuned to a desired frequency to apply liquid to the drain channel 44. For example, the water spray may cycle for 1 minute every 60 minutes during planting 204. Disinfectant may be added to the spray by switching the disinfectant activation button from "off" to "on".

The maintenance 206 icon may be selected from the home screen 142 to access the maintenance mode screen 342 by entering the password screen 338. The maintenance mode screen 342 includes the level 1-6 icons 156-166, the return 260 icon, the restart 346 icon, and the maintenance mode indicator 204. From the maintenance mode screen 342, the operation of the relays and sensors of the hydroponic planter 10 can be monitored and changed. For example, activated and deactivated sensors of the hydroponic planter 10 can be monitored from the screen 342. Each level 156-166 includes sensor-triggered indicators for seeder full 354, seeder empty 356, tray home 358, tray full harvest 360, and seeder stop 362. An "on/off" toggle button is provided for lights 348, main sprayer 352 (i.e., pump 116), half switch 354, drain sanitizer 356, and sanitizer surge 350. When the "on/off" toggle button is toggled, the toggle screen 400 appears. For example, switching the main sprinkler 352 "on/off," a switching window 400 may appear that requires the operator to confirm whether the main sprinkler 352 is on. A half switch 354 is also provided for a larger system, three or more segments, or more than three segments, and the controller 140 independently sprays only the front and back halves of the hydroponic planter 10 in order to compensate for the different water pressures at the different mounting locations. Using half switch 354, controller 140 may irrigate the six-segment planting station by operating the first three-segment spray and then operating the last three-segment spray. Light 348 toggle is programmed to allow an operator to turn lighting element 48 on and off. The main sprinkler 352 toggle is programmed to allow the operator to turn the pump 120 for the cutter 100 on and off.

From the maintenance mode screen 342, the operator can access the level 1 screen 364 to manage maintenance parameters specific to the level 1 156. The 2-6 levels 158-166 are also accessible from the maintenance mode screen 342. Dedicated level 156-166 maintenance screens, such as level 1 screen 364, include relay/sensor states for seeder full 354, seeder empty 356, tray home 358, full harvest 360, and seeder stop 362 operation of the hydroponic planter 10. A toggle is provided to turn on the main harvest 368 motor (i.e., drive mechanism 37A), the seeder 372 motor (i.e., drive mechanism 37B), or both for the selected level. The direction of travel of each motor 368, 372 is controlled using "on/off" switch buttons associated with the tray harvest motor 380 and the tray seed motor 382. For example, if the main harvest 368 motor (i.e., drive mechanism 37A) is selected and the tray harvest motor 380 is turned on, this will cause the main harvest 368 motor to rotate the rollers 30, thereby moving the seed tape 28 from the loading position to the unloading position. Similarly, if the main harvest 368 motor (i.e., drive mechanism 37A) is selected and the tray planting motor 382 is turned on, this will cause the main harvest 368 motor to rotate the rollers 30, thereby moving the seed tape 28 from the unloading position to the loading position. Further, if the seeder 372 motor (i.e., drive mechanism 37B) is selected, and the tray harvest motor 380 is turned on, this will cause the seeder 372 motor to rotate the spool 31, thereby moving the seed tape 28 from the loading position to the unloading position. Similarly, if the seeder 372 motor (i.e., drive mechanism 37B) is selected, and the tray seeding motor 382 is turned on, this will cause the seeder 372 motor to rotate the spool 31, moving the seed tape 28 from the unloading position to the loading position. A fill seeder 384 toggle is provided for "turning on/off" the auger 58 to fill the seed dispenser 52 with seeds from the scaffold 96. A cleaning nozzle 386 toggle is provided for "turning on/off" the liquid applicator 38D to clean the seed tape 28. A cutting nozzle 388 toggle is provided for "turning on/off" the liquid nozzles 108, 110. A switch key for the cutting nozzle motor 390 is provided for activating the drive mechanism 37G to operate the carrier 112 back and forth. A sprinkler nozzle 392 toggle is provided for "turning on/off" the liquid applicator 38B and simultaneously activating the drive mechanism 37C to rotate the liquid dispenser 40B back and forth to irrigate the seeds on the seed tape 28. A drip nozzle 394 toggle is provided for "turning on/off" the liquid applicator 38A to drip irrigation the seeds on the seed tape 28. A seeder up 396 toggle is provided for actuating the drive mechanism 37D to rotate the seed dispenser 52 upwardly so that the seed dispenser is in a generally horizontal position (i.e., generally parallel) relative to the seed tape 28. Similarly, a seeder down 398 toggle is provided for actuating the drive mechanism 37D to rotate the seed dispenser 52 downward so that the seed dispenser is in a generally vertical position (i.e., generally vertical) relative to the seed tape 28 and the discharge port 56 is in close proximity or contact with the seed tape 28. The operator is provided with a planting date 366 field to specify a planting date and updates the planting date 366 field by selecting the update 296 icon. Changing the planting date allows the operator to change the watering schedule or delay the watering schedule, which the controller 140 uses to control the irrigation schedule.

The control system 400 includes a controller 140 for operating the hydroponic planter 10. The control system 400 may include one or more analog 416 and digital 404 inputs. In one example, one or more sensors 422, such as sensor 69 or other planter sensors, are coupled to the controller 140. The control system 400 may include one or more analog 414 and digital 412 outputs. In one example, one or more actuators 402, such as drive mechanisms 37A-H, pneumatic source 74A, vacuum source 92, pump 116, hydraulic source 130, etc., are coupled to controller 140. The power supply 418 is connected to the power supply 128 for providing power to the control system 400.

The present disclosure is not limited to the specific aspects described herein. In particular, the present disclosure contemplates variations of mode types in which aspects of the present disclosure may be applied to hydroponic planting devices, systems and/or methods that address the deficiencies of existing hydroponic and non-hydroponic seed planting processes. The foregoing description has been presented for purposes of illustration and description. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit any disclosure to the precise form disclosed. Other alternatives or examples may be considered to be included in the present disclosure. The description is merely an example of aspects, procedures, or methods of the disclosure. It should be understood that any other modifications, substitutions and/or additions may be made which are within the intended spirit and scope of the present disclosure. From the foregoing, it can be seen that this disclosure accomplishes at least all of the intended purposes.

The preceding detailed description is of the implementation of the present disclosure in a few aspects and is not intended to limit the scope. The following claims set forth various aspects of the disclosure that are more particularly disclosed.