Description:TECHNICAL FIELD
The present invention relates to a device, a pod for growing plants. More specifically to an automated grow pod device. Said device, pod (100) aids in the automatic control of environmental conditions like temperature, humidity and nutrients for facile growth of plants. The pod (100) aids in the delivery of the of nutrients to the roots of plants, secures the plants through an array of support structure. The pod (100) is easy to maintain and use, with simple operations. The invention provides facile fabrication of the pod (100).
BACKGROUND
Hydroponics method of farming is being solemnly considered as an alternative to the traditional method of farming. The advantages of hydroponics have attracted considerable attention across the farming community as an alternative to traditional farming and has parallelly enthused the non-farming community to engage in horticulture and gardening to grow seasonal and unseasonal crops.
The hydroponic methods currently available have shortcomings like for example low yield per floor area; little or no automation; poor design features for better ergonomics, user-experience, promoting delight and easy agricultural learning; bulky layouts; high cost and un-portability of devices.
The patent document US 9974243 provides a system and method for aeroponic plant growth, however the device does not provide option to hold multiple types of plants and the subsystems do not compatible for small scale horticulture enthusiasts interested in growing variety of plants. Another document US20210137026 provides a hydroponic grow assembly, said invention does not provide the ease of automating the apparatus for different activities.
Therefore, there is a need for a device which provides the ease of growing multiple seasonal and unseasonal plants; with good ergonomics and minimum human intervention.
SUMMARY OF INVENTION
Accordingly, the present invention provides an automated grow pod (100) device for growing plant saplings, said device comprising cap portion (1), plant array portion (2), and base portion (3),
wherein -
the grow pod is of two divisions (A) and (B) connected through one or more coupler(6)
the cap portion (1) of each division (A) and (B) comprises a removable cover (20), inlet (21) for supply Nutrient solution, pipes (22) to connect to connecting point (23) and nozzles (24);
the plant array portion (2) of each division (A) and (B) comprises vertically constituted plant array modules (17), wherein there are singular or multiple vertical columns (27) for channelizing the nutrient solution from nozzles (24) upward, one or more plant holder units (PHUs) (34) are attached on vertical support elements (35), hanger elements (36) on thesupports (35) on which the plant holder units (34) are inserted through specific holes (37);
the base portion (3) in the division (A) (4) comprises solution compartment; and division (B) comprises environmental compartment (5) with microcontroller embedded control unit (29) and sensors for controlling water circulation, temperature, humidity, light, air and carbon dioxide; and
optionally castor wheels (12) at bottom on the pod (100).

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF DRAWINGS
The features of the present invention can be understood in detail with the aid of appended drawings. It is to be noted however, that the drawings illustrate only typical embodiments of this invention and are therefore not to be considered limiting of its scope for the invention. The drawings comprise the following, in which-
FIGURE 1: illustrates the isometric view of pod (100) in closed state.
FIGURE 2: illustrates the isometric view of pod (100) in open state.
FIGURE 3: illustrates the front view of exploded pod (100) in open state showing chambers (A) and(B), and portion segments.
FIGURE 4: illustrates the top view of pod(100) in closed state.
FIGURE 5: illustrates the top view of pod(100) in open state.
FIGURE 6: illustrates the separated cap portion with cover.
FIGURE 7: illustrates the separated cap portion internal.
FIGURE 8: illustrates(a) the internal view of the separated cap portion with special pump layout for nozzles and (b) shows the internal view of the separated cap portion with special ultrasonic fogger layout for nozzles.
FIGURE 9:illustrates the separated cap portion bottom view.
FIGURE 10: illustrates themodular segments in plant array portion.
FIGURE 11: illustrates themodular segments in plant array portion attached condition.
FIGURE 12: illustrates the size alteration in pod (100) leveraging modular segments in plant array portion: Small
FIGURE 13: illustrates the size alteration in pod (100) leveraging modular segments in plant array portion: Big.
FIGURE 14: illustrates the modular removable plant holder units in segments on plant arrays.
FIGURE 15: illustrates the plant arrays with different plant holder units in place.
FIGURE 16: illustrates the attachment detail of plant holder units on plant arrays.
FIGURE 17: illustrates the different plant holder units.
FIGURE 18: illustrates the details of micro-greens plant holder unit.
FIGURE 19: illustrates the plant array configuration with horizontal holding system for plants.
FIGURE 20: illustrates the base portion details.
FIGURE 21: illustrates the chamber A of base portion- the solution compartment.
FIGURE 22: illustrates the light and air tower (9).
FIGURE 23: illustrates the exploded view tower (9).
FIGURE 24: illustrates the tower (9) bottom connector module.
FIGURE 25: illustrates the tower (9) intermediate connector module.
FIGURE 26: illustrates the tower (9) top cowl module.
FIGURE 27: illustrates the section view of bottom connector module when connected with base module.
FIGURE 28: illustrates the section view of intermediate connector module when connected with light and air modules.
FIGURE 29: illustrates (a) drawback of non-specific distance between light source and Plants of different life stages and/or types placed in different plant holders; (b) mechanically movable (automated or manual) light sources allowing distance flexibility.
FIGURE 30: illustrates (a) light sources away from center when plants in sapling stage; (b) shows light sources closer towards center when plants larger.
FIGURE 31: illustrates the flexible light fixtures in compact state.
FIGURE 32: illustrates the flexible light fixtures with variable position for lights.
FIGURE 33: illustrates the explanation of flexible light fixture mechanism.
FIGURE 34: illustrates the chamber B of base portion- the environment control compartment.
FIGURE 35: illustrates the schematic section of pod demonstrating environment control.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF INVENTION
The foregoing description of the embodiments of the invention has been presented for the purpose of illustration. It is not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention to the precise form disclosed as many modifications and variations are possible in light of this disclosure for a person skilled in the art in view of the drawings, description and claims.It may further be noted that as used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural reference unless the context clearly dictates otherwise. Unless defined otherwise, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meanings as commonly understood by person skilled in the art.
The present invention provides a device, a grow pod (100); which is adopted for creating an environment controllable space for plants to grow. It allows spraying nutrient solution directly to the roots, instead of keeping them submerged in the nutrient solution. The roots surface area absorbs the highest amount of oxygen, while also getting the necessary nutrition. The Pod (100) helps is much quicker growth compared to conventional growth in a hydroponics environment, along with eliminating the chances of disease spreading. Parallelly, it aids in consumption of about 95% less water in the growth process compared with traditional approach of growth of plants. The lights of particular spectral distribution are specified which provides special advantages like more spread of leaves instead of taller plants. The Pod (100) is portable and ensures that the product is adoptable in all interior settings. It opens 180 degrees, and hence can be used as an outdoor setup if the users want to use sunlight instead of the provided artificial grow lights. The device also provides flexibility in the plant arrangement setups, where user can grow microgreens, leafy veggies, and even taller plants like peppers. It is ideal for deployment in interior spaces, and shaded areas.
The pod device (100) of present invention is illustrated in the figure (1) and (2). The figure (1) illustrates the pod (100) in closed state and the figure (2) illustrates the pod (100) in open state. In regular state of operation, the pod (100) remains in closed form, as shown in figure (1). The Pod (100) is constituted of three segments-the cap portion (1), the plant array portion (2), and the base portion (3).
The figure (2) and figure (3) reveals that the vertically sliced open state of pod (100) into two chambers-(A) and (B). The slicing splits the cap portion (1), Plant array portion (2), and the Base portion(3) into two divisions. Said two chambers (A) and (B) are unique with respect to their Base portion (3).
In an embodiment, the Base portion (3) of the chamber A acts as the solution compartment (4) (figure (21)) while the other portion of chamber B, acts as the Environment control compartment (5) (figure (34)). Said two halves are coupled through a coupler (6) at a corner to make it an easily operatable pod (100).
In another embodiment, the open pod (100) as in figure (2) illustrates a grid of Plant holder holes (7) in the plant array portions (2). The plant array portion (2) of both the chambers A and B bend in the horizontal plane in a concave form. When the pod (100) is in a closed state, the form of the Plant array portion (2) creates an empty enclosed space, forming a cylindrical central volume (8); the halves of the Cap portion(1) and the Base portion(3) touch each other like mating parts. The arrangement renders the cylindrical central volume (8) substantially airtight. Lining rubber gaskets (110) in figure (2) and (3) along the parting lines of the halves reinforces the air in locked state. Said setup makes it easier to practically control the environmental parameters of the space where the shoot systems of the plants are present.
In an embodiment of the invention, along the central axis of the cylindrical central volume (8), there is ahollow modular tower (9) for the combination of Light and Air. It is mounted on the Environment control compartment (5), in chamber B. The tower has air vents (10) along its height and lined with light sources (11).
In an embodiment, the pod (100) is portable through the evenly distributed castor wheels (12) at the bottom. Handles (13) run around the pod (100) for easy maneuvering and to protect against lateral collision. The closed system is locked with an inter handle lock mechanism (14).
The figure (4) and figure (5) illustrates the top view of the pod (100) in closed state and open state respectively. As depicted in figure (5), if the chamber A rotate180 degrees about an edge pivot with respect to chamber B, the overall depth of the pod (100) reduces. In said state, the setup is placed against a wall, with the area holding the plant shoots facing the exterior. The plants in such a state face towards a location getting regular sunlight or artificial light.
The figures (6) illustrate the cap portion (1) in closed state and the figure (7), figure (8) and figure (9) illustrate the cap portion (1) in open state. The cap portion (1) has a removable cover (20) as depicted in figure (6). Nutrient solution is supplied in the Pod (100) from an inlet (21) in the chamber A of the Cap portion. Nutrient solution is pumped from solution compartment (4) of the Base portion (3) to the inlet (21) through internal pipe(s) (22). Solution transfer from chamber A of the cap portion to chamber B is done using a flexible pipe (22) connected to each at connecting points (23) having enough length to stretch when the system is fully open, and bend when the system is closed. The bottom surface of the cap (1) comprises nozzles (24) to direct nutrient solution to the plants growing below. The distribution of solution from the inlet to the nozzles (24) is carried out by below mentioned two ways.
(i) the base structure acts as a solution containment area (25) as depicted in the figure 8 which temporarily stores the incoming solution from the inlet (21). Thus, it acts as an overhead tank-
a. specific pumps (26) are positioned for each nozzle to have individual control over the supply of nutrients to columns (27). The pumps (26) will intake solution from containment area (25) and pump it to their respective nozzles (24). Thus, the timing for each nozzle (24) is controlled. Nozzles (24) with no plants below them have their pumps (26) set to OFF for the time being. Plants requiring water in higher frequencies have a higher timing of nozzle pump (26) operation, and vice versa. On the exterior, there are LED light indictors (28) as in figure (9) to indicate the nutrient running status from all or particular nozzles (24). Indicators (28) obtain get their signal from the same wired signalcoming from the Control Unit (29) in the base unit 3, which triggers the pumps (26).
b. The nozzles (24) are equipped with ultrasonic foggers (111) figure 8(b). When they receive the signal from control unit (29), they operate by turning the solution above them into mist, sprayed below, which is automatically controlled.
c. If the nozzle (24) holes are kept open, the nutrient solution automatically trickles down through the nozzle holes because of gravity. In such a case, it is preferable that the bottom ends of the nozzles (24) have knob regulators to control the output manually when required (not shown in the figure). The amount of nozzle nutrient output in each cycle is controlled by regulating the water stored in the containment area (25). For example, for each cycle, if the average rate of flow per nozzle is Y ml/sec and they must be run for T sec time, (Y*T) ml of solution is sprayed through a nozzle. If the number of nozzles (24) is N, (N*Y*T) ml of solution is sprayed per cycle, and is the amount of nutrient solution pumped by the main pump from the base unit (3) to the Cap portion (1) in each cycle.
(ii) an extender Pipe is connected to the inlet (21), then bifurcated to connect to all the nozzles (24). In such a case, storing water in the Pod (100) becomes redundant and hence, the height of the cap portion is reduced, making the overall pod more compact. Thus, when the pump (112) runs, solution is sprayed through the nozzles (24). The rate of spray depends on the output rate of the pump (112) and the height at which the cap portion (1) is with respect to thebase portion (3). If the height of the Plant array region (2) is changed by increasing or reducing levels of plant array modules (17), the pump (112) flow rate and timing is corrected accordingly.
In another embodiment, the central part of the cap portion (1) has an opening (30) for circulation of air, with or without an exhaust fan (31). The extra volume for having fan is a part of chamber A of the cap portion (1). Hence, chamber B of the cap portion will have a cut out space (32). The space (32) allows the user to lift out the light tower (9) below it, full or part, when the pod (100) is in an closed or open condition as depicted in the figure (2), without any clashing of parts. At the bottom surface of the cap portion (1), there are special attachment units (33) for plant-support elements. The attachment units (33) acts as holders for threads or wires to manipulate the grow direction of the shoots of creeper plants.
The figure (10) and figure (11) illustrates the modules of different heights of the pod (100), and attachment with each other. The male-female inter-module attachment mechanism (16) match with the profile used on the top surface of the Base unit (3) compartments for better arrangement flexibility. Similarly, the Plant array modular segments (17) is bilaterally symmetrical so that they areadoptable on either chamber A or B.
In an embodiment of the invention, the Plant array portion (2) are in ribbed form. Said form aids in the structural strength and forming vertical columns to accommodate plant roots. The right amount of integral strength would allow the arrays on both sides to transfer their own loads, as well as from the modules and cap (1) above them, to the Base portion (3). Fixing the cap portion (1) on top of said assembly completes the system. The part wise segmentation allows flexible modularity in the height of the plant array portion. Figure (12) and figure (13) illustrate how the size of the pod can vary by choosing the number of vertical plant array module segment (17). For such transformations, other variation would include increasing the length of the internal pipe which takes nutrient solution up from the Base portion (3) to the cap portion (1); increasing the length of the wire which takes electricity from the base portion (3) to the cap portion 1; and attaching tower units (18) which is a combination of light and air units as indicated in figure (22) and figure (23), matching the heights of plant array portion (2). The tower (9) is modular; its length is increased by attaching another unit (18) of required height on top using an intermediate connector (19). Electrical connection, which comes from the base unit is provided to the upper part of tower module (9) by a simple plug or common solderless-terminal connection.

In an embodiment of the invention, the plant array portion (2) is vertically constituted of smaller modules (17). As represented in figures (10), (11), (12), (13), (14), (15) and (16), in Plant array module (17) there are singular or multiple vertical columns (27) for channelizing the nutrient solution from the nozzles (24) upwards. Along the height of the columns (27), one or more plant holder units (PHUs) (34) is attached on vertical support elements (35). There are hanger elements (36) on the supports (35) on which the PHUs (34) is inserted through specific holes (37).

In an embodiment of the invention, one or more openings on the surface of the PHUs (34) forms individual plant holder holes (7). The dimensions of such openings is based on the form of net pots intended for the pods. Conventional net pots are conical with the opening diameter ranging from 2-5 inches. PHUs (29) have recess at the edges (38) or cutouts or depressions for fingers to lift them. For any column (27), single or multiple PHUs (34) are attached along its height, when the column space becomes a closed vertical volume. The plants are inserted at the plant holder holes (7), so that their respective roots emerge in this volume. Thus, the roots get nutrient solution sprayed on them from a nozzle (24) of the cap portion (1).

The figure (17) illustrates some different design possibilities for the plant holder units (PHUs) (34). PHU types Q and R show that the height of the units can be different. The heights are based on the heights of the Plant array modules (17) adopted. They have multiple Plant holder holes (7), indicating that it is preferred to grow plants in them with smaller shoot systems so that their shoots don’t clashin their mature forms. For example, the vertical distance between the openings is based on the diameter of final mature lettuce heads. The placement of the consecutive plant holder holes (7) are also staggered to increase center to center distance. In a similar way, plant holder unit type P has a single plant holder hole (7).The height is based on the predicted height of the shoot system of a taller plant. Type S is used as microgreens holder units with special microgreen growing trays (39) as depicted in the figure (18) also. Single or multiple of trays are attached to the overall S unit with an easily removable attachment mechanism: ridges (40) on the sides of the trays held at stoppers (41) on the holder unit S. Notches (42) acts as grippers for any pipe dripping system from the nozzles (24) above. Said system of swapable Plant holder units and their multiple form potential makes the utility renders the pod (100) versatile, and providing flexible user experience.

Another layout of holding plants in the Plant array portion (2) is in the form of single or multiple horizontal tray shelves (43), as illustrated in figure (19). The shelves have Plant holder holes (7) distributed in a horizontal or inclined plane. The roots of the plants get nutrition from the nutrient solution held inside the tray shelves (43). A pipe (44) carries solution to the cap portion (1) from the base portion. The solution is sent downwards through entry pipes (45), which are connected at one end to the nozzle(s) (24) and the internal chamber of the tray shelves (43) at the other end. Another set of pipes are connected to the bottom of the tray shelves (43) to act as drainage pipes (46). Passive forms of hydroponics, like Kratky method or active types like Nutrient Film Technique NFT method,and the like are utilized in such an arrangement. When the Kratky method is used, the horizontal tray shelves (43) will hold stagnant nutrient solution in the trays. The plant roots will slowly use up the solution. The drainage pipes (46) have to be blocked and should only be opened for cleaning and maintenance of the horizontal tray shelves (43). Here the pump (112) housed in the solution compartment (4) will run at larger intervals, preferably, weeks to maintain the solution levels. If NFT system is used, the frequency of the pump (112) in the solution compartment (4) is shorter, preferably every 15 minutes, creating a continuous flow of solution, from the Solution compartment (4), up through the pipe (44) to the cap portion (1), and down through the entry pipes (45), into the horizontal tray shelves (43), and exiting through the drainage pipes (46), returning back to the solution compartment (4).
In an embodiment, the materials that are adopted for the grow pod (100) is-
a) Cap portion (1): Polypropylene Plastic or other plastics like Polyethylene, Polyvinyl chloride, Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene.
b) Plant Array portion (2): Polypropylene Plastic or other plastics like Polyethylene, Polyvinyl chloride, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene for overall form and Aluminium or stainless steel, painted mild steel for support elements (35)
c) Plant holder units (34): Acrylic or other plastics like Polyethylene, Polyvinyl chloride, Acrylonitrile butadiene styrene
d) Base portion (2):
-solution compartment (4): mild steel sheet or Plastic like Polyethylene, Polypropylene
-Environment control compartment (5): Mild steel sheet
e) Tower (9) & Connecting parts (19), (56), (57): Aluminum and Polypropylene plastic or other plastics like Polyethylene, Polyvinyl chloride, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene
f) Main tank (48): Polyethylene or other plastics like Polypropylene, Polyvinyl chloride]
g) Containers (53), (118), (119): Polyethylene or Glass, other plastics like Polypropylene, Polyvinyl chloride
h) Ducting (71): Mild steel sheet for structure with Foam lining or other thermally insulating materials like rock-wool, cellulose, fiberglass, thermocol.
In an embodiment of the invention, Temperature sensor(s), Humidity sensor(s), light sensor(s) and Carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor(s) are required to be placed in periphery of plants. Said sensors are placed on vertical support elements (35) (Figure (14) and (15)). For humidity measurements, moisture holding substrate based resistive or capacitive sensors are used. For temperature measurement, contact type or non-contact type sensors are used. Sensors for measuring illumination or light may include light dependent resistor (LDR), photosynthetically active radiation (PAR) sensors or luxmeters, based on the accuracy of data required. Nondispersive infrared sensor (NDIR) type, photoacoustic type or chemical type Carbon dioxide (CO2) sensor(s) are used for Carbon dioxide (CO2) measurement. Electrochemical oxygen (O2) sensors, automotive oxygen sensor (lambda sensors) or Ultrasonic Oxygen Sensor can be used for oxygen (O2) concentration measurements.
In an embodiment, the temperature and Humidity Sensor (113) includes a resistive-type humidity measurement component and an NTC temperature measurement component and connects to the 8-bit microcontroller in the control unit(CU). It has resolution of humidity 0.1 %RH; temperature 0.1 Celsius and accuracy of humidity ±2%RH (Max ±5%RH); temperature < ±0.5 Celsius. A Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR) sensor (114) is a silicon photovoltaic sensor and is adopted to measure light in the 400 nanometers to 700 nanometer range. It measures in Range: 0 to 2500 µmol m-2 s-1 (PPFD) with absolute accuracy of ±5%. The MG-811 Carbon Dioxide Sensor (115) is used for sensing carbon dioxide, it is ametal oxide sensor that works on solid electrolyte cell principle. It undergoes following reaction when the sensor exposed to CO2, resulting output Voltage at terminals is measured to determine CO2 concentration.
Cathodic reaction:2Li + CO2 + 1/2O2 + 2e - = Li2CO3
Anodic reaction:2Na + 1/2O2 + 2e- = Na2O
Overall chemical reaction:Li2CO3 + 2Na + = Na2O + 2Li + CO2
For sensing oxygen, a DF Robot Gravity I2C Oxygen sensor is adopted in the invention. It is an electrochemical sensor for oxygen concentration detection. Oxygen gas is reduced to hydroxide at cathode. At anode hydroxide reduces the metal to form metal oxide. The output voltage of electrochemical cell is measured to compute the oxygen concentration. It has measurement range of 1 – 30% vol and oxygen with response time of less than 15s.

The figure 20 illustrates the attachment of the chamber A and B of the base portion (3) at the edge at extended vertical structural members (15). With the castors (12) beneath them, and the tower (9) is attached to the Environment control compartment (5), the Base portion (3) is treated as an independent entity. It is openable/closable at the handles (13) and movable. The entity takes the load of the arrays (2) and the cap portion (1) which is added above it; thus, is a strong structure and a rigid framework based on the overall size. The top surface of the base portion halves have plant-array attachment mechanisms (16) in the form of mating parts. On top of these, plant array modular segments (17) are fixed, on both the chambers A and B. Vertically, one or more levels of these modules (17) constitute the overall Plant array segment (2) of the pod (100).
In an embodiment of the invention, on the perimeter of the top surface of the base portion (3), there are depressions and channels (47) to collect solution from columns (27) above. All the drained nutrients are fed to the main tank (48) kept in chamber A of the Base portion (4). While the drainage goes directly from top to bottom in chamber A, a flexible connecting pipe (49) carries the solution from chamber B to the main tank (48). The rest of the top surface emerging in the central volume space (8) forms platform areas (50). Other plant setups like pots, or tools for sapling growth is placed here.
The figure (21) illustrates the chamber A of base portion (4) which acts as the solution compartment of the pod (100). Single or multiple openable shutters (51), (52) gives the user access to the main solution tank (48) and raw nutrition solution containers (53). The main tank (48) acts as a container for the final nutrient solutions to be sprayed on the plant roots, with a pump (112) inside and connections from above to receive the circulated solution. The pump (112) is of any type, serving the purpose of carrying the solution up to the cap portion (1), a positive displacement pump (112) is currently used for more volumetric controlled movement of the solution. The tank (48) is designed to be removed from the whole pod system for cleaning or filling purposes. Thus, the system is flexible to be used with a completely external tank.
In an embodiment, the volume of nutrient solution to be contained in the tank (48) is calculated based on the number of plant holder holes (7) in the setup, average amount of solution usage per plant per day, percentage of lost solution through leakage or evaporation, and number of days after which the user would like to refill the tank. The solution is typical hydroponic mixture containing required water mixed with portions of micro and macro nutrientsand PH modulators. Provision for keeping storage containers for raw nutrients for plant growth (53) is coupled with one or more nutrient pumps (54), and pipes (55) for supplying nutrient to main solution tank (48). The arrangement aids in automating the regulation of pod’s solution composition. A water level sensor is placed inside the main water tank (48). Contact type water level sensor like for example floating, resistive, capacitive or optical sensor or non-contact type sensor like for example ultrasonic sensor is used for water level measurement. EC (Electrical Conductivity)( EC), pH and Total dissolved solids (TDS) sensors are semi-submerged in the main water tank solution (48). EC, pHand TDS sensors send measurements to Control Unit (29) intermittently.
Typically an analog electrical conductivity (EC) sensor is adopted in the invention. It measures output voltage at electrodes to compute EC value. It operates take 3.0~5.0V as voltage input and gives 0~3.2V output voltage. Range, 0-2000us/cm; Measurement Accuracy: ±5% F.S. An analog type pH sensor for computing the output of pH electrode with pH Measuring Range of 0-14 and accuracy: ± 0.1pH (25 deg C) is used. The total Dissolved Solids (TDS) is measured by gravity analog TDS sensor which supports 5.5 V input and gives 0 ~ 2.3V analog output voltage. The measurement range is about 0 ~ 1000ppm and is of ± 10% accuracy.
In an embodiment of the invention, the tower (9) for light and air is an attachment to the environment compartment of the base portion (5) where it is inserted and held in place through a removable mating part joinery part: bottom connector module (56) as shown in figures (24), (25), (26), (27) and (28). The tower (9) not only act as an optimally positioned holder for light sources (11) but also act as a duct to distribute cold/hot air throughout the vertical length of the central volume (8). The outflow of temperature modulated air is carriedinside into the internal central volume (8) where plants will grow through air vent openings (10) placed at certain intervals along the height. The top ending of the duct has a removable cowl cap with vent openings (57).
In an embodiment of the invention, the light sources (11) produce heat after a certain time of usage, the integration of the cold air draft passage behind them reduces the heat load by cooling the holder for the lights (58) (figure 28) through direct conduction. Also because of the tall form of the tower, the air is pushed to the top of central volume (8), making sure that cold air, which usually sinks down, is more evenly distributed. Thus, the clubbed functions provide more advantages to the system. The base material (58) for the tower is preferably be of good heat conducting material, like aluminum or composite with some polymer material like polypropylene for cost optimization.
In an embodiment of the invention, any suitable type of light is adopted including LED, fluorescent, metal halide (MH), and high-pressure sodium (HPS) making sure that the PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation) requirement for the plants is met. LEDs have lower energy requirement and produce less waste heat. The spectral distribution is optimized as best suited for the plants.
In an embodiment, LED lights with spectral distribution of 380nm-730nm wavelength; which includes full spectrum light along with UV-A (Ultraviolet) and Far Red (Infrared) are adopted to improve leaf area and biomass.
For cases where a light source is placed in a form where plants surround it almost radially as depicted in figure (29), there is a drawback of non-specific distance between light source and plants of different life stages and/or different types placed in different plant holder holes. If the lights (11) are fixed to the tower body (58) the plants in sapling stage (59) or smaller plants are further away from it as compared to plants in mature stage (60) or bigger plant. Such an issue is solved by segmenting the light in portions and providing them with a mechanism (61) to change distance from the fixed supporting structure (58). The utility of such arrangement is shown in figure (30), which shows how the light distance is changed manually and/or automatically based on the growth stage of the plant.
The figures (31), (32) and (33) demonstrate an embodiment of mechanism (61) where light strips (62) are connected through revolute joints to two long links (63). These links are connected through revolute joints to two small sliding links (64) which slide in a slot (65) on the holding body (58). The arrangement allows manual adjustment of the light strip (62) with respect to the tower body (58).
In an embodiment of the invention, chamber B of base portion (5) house components for the modification of the environment of central volume (8), preferably along with the general circuitry (66) of the overall pod. Environment control comprises of systems for temperature change, humidity reduction and carbon dioxide (CO2) addition.
In another embodiment of the invention, the general circuitry (66) involves the control unit (CU) (29) of the whole system which automates the functions through microcontroller, along with a power management circuit. Main external power source is connected here through a port (67), and the power is distributed to all the circuits, pumps, lights, actuators and sensors. A backup battery of necessary voltage and ampere-hour rating of 220V input power and a 12V 7AH rated batteryis connected to the system.
All the wiring from the sensors provides data to the CU. The necessary signals are sent to the lights, actuators and User displays from CU. Wi-Fi/ SIM module allows the system to wirelessly transmit data to servers, through which remote monitoring and control is possible.
In an embodiment of the invention, the temperature is controlled for the optimum growth of the plants. When the ambient temperature is higher than the necessary temperature for a particular plant growth, a temperature alteration apparatus (68) at the base cool the air through outside inlet (69) and an inlet for air recirculation (70) from the central volume (8). The air is passed through ducting (71) and circulated in the volume (8) through the tower (9). The figure (35) illustrates the circulation of air in the pod (100).
In an embodiment of the invention, the temperature alteration apparatus (68) at the base (5) comprises a vapor compression system. The temperature alteration apparatus (68) is an evaporator (68), and is with a closed loop system consisting of compressor (72), expansion valve, and condenser assisted by fan(s) (73). The air intake passes through the evaporator (68), while the condenser is distributed along the exterior surface (74) of the Environment control compartment (5).
In an embodiment, a Peltier module-based cooling system is used as the temperature alteration apparatus (68), the cool side of which shall be in contact with the air passing through ducting (71). The hot side of the system would require fan-based cooling.
For heating, the vapor compression system possess a reversing valve, to flip the evaporator and condenser functioning of the system; or electric heating coils are used. The exterior inlet (69), recirculation inlet (70), and the air change inlet (30) is with a valve system and/or a louvre apparatus to minimize leakage. The exterior inlet (69) is with an air filter attached to it.
In another embodiment of the invention, Humidity management system is adopted in the pod (100). A lower humidity in the air ensures easier transpiration in the plants. Humidity management system comprises of a vapor compression cycle or a desiccant filter with fans. A vapor compression system dehumidifies the air passing though the evaporator. The water from condensation is collected in a tray below. The air is passed through a reusable desiccant filter (117) figure (34) and (35), placed in the duct, to remove excess moisture.
In another embodiment of the invention the pod (100), the environmental compartment (5) provides mechanism for the carbon dioxide (CO2) addition, a unit for Carbon dioxide addition (Carbon dioxide generator) (75) is connected to the ducting (9) of the pod after or before the evaporator via pipe/ducting (76). Said addition provides ‘CO2 fertilizer effect’, accelerating plant growth.
In an embodiment, carbon dioxide generator unit (75) produces CO2 in gaseous form using a reaction setup using citric acid and sodium bicarbonate.
C6H8O7 + 3NaHCO3 ? Na3C6H6O7 + 3CO2 (Gas) + 3H2O
A container (117), preferably made of glass or plastic like Polyethylene, Polypropylene will contain Citric acid solution, and one container (118), preferably made of glass or plastic preferably Polyethylene or Polypropylene will contain Sodium Bicarbonate solution. A pump (119) is placed with inlet tubing (120) attached to the Citric acid solution container, and an outlet tubing (121) attached to the Sodium bicarbonate solution container such that upon its running, Citric acid solution is transferred to the Sodium bicarbonate solution container. The run timing of the pump will determine the amount of reaction, and is controlled by the control unit (CU) (29). The pipe/ducting (76) is connected to the sodium bicarbonate solution container from where the CO2 will exit the Carbon dioxide generator unit. At room temperature, production of one liter of CO2 will require approximately 4.28g of Citric acid to react with approximately 3.76g of Sodium Bicarbonate.
Alternatively the source of CO2 for the device (100) may include:
i. Directly piping CO2 from canisters of compressed CO2 gas and an electronic valve on pipe (76) to control supply of gaseous CO2 into the ducting (71)
ii. Regularly storing frozen carbon dioxide in the chamber (75) and an electronic valve on pipe (76) to control supply of gaseous CO2 into the ducting (71). In such a case, the chamber (75) is thermally insulated using materials like rock-wool, cellulose, fiberglass, thermocol or foam.
The number of liters of CO2 required is dependent on – (a) The size of the Central Volume (8), say V liters, (b). Existing CO2 concentration in the air in the Central Volume (8), say C0 milligrams/ liter. Intended concentration in the air in the Central Volume (8), say C1 milligrams/ liter. The amount of CO2 approximately required to be added can be calculated as follows-
C’ ˜ (C1-C0) * (1.1*V) …....(in mg)
1.1 times V is to add 10% extra value to the equation to compensate for the extra air volume in the ducting. For the amount in liters, the same value can be divided by average density of CO2 (~1.97 x 103 mg/liter).
C”= C’/(1.97 x 103) …....(in liters)
The value V is a constant based on the dimensions of the system; the value of C0 is measured using the CO2 sensor; the value of C1 can be fixed to around 1000-1500 mg/ltr.
The average C0 value of air is around 450 mg/ltr. If the height of the plant array area is 1400 mm and the approximate diameter of the Central Volume (8) is 600mm, the volume V ˜ 395lt(assuming a cylinder). So if we take C1 as 1200 mg/ltr, the value of C” ˜ 165ltrs. The CO2 release is performed as “CO2 boosts” around 2-3 times a week.
In an embodiment of the invention, the amount of internal concavity of the plant array modules depends on the length (L) and depth (D) of the Pod(100). The ideal cross-sectional profile of the central volume (8) is circular such that the distance of the Plant holder holes (7) is equal from the tower (9); thus L=D. If L is higher than D, the internal profile tends to form an ellipse, with L acting as the major axis and D the minor axis. It is recommended that the value of L is not more than 1.5D such that the distance of plants from the light source is not too varying. The footprint (LxD) is maintained such that the minimum distance between the lights and plant holder holes (7) is not less than 250 mm. In cases, where the distance is less that 250mm, light burning might take place when the plants grow too close.The distance between the light source and plants depends on the type of light, its intensity, and the effective PAR value. Typically, while keeping the plant is growing an average diameter of 600 mm in the Central volume space (8) is maintained in a pod(100), having external dimensions of the pod as L=850 mm and D=720 mm. Light intensity is maintained at 13-17 mols meter-2 day-1 of PAR (Photosynthetically Active Radiation). A higher footprint would limit usability of the system and increase the cooling/heating load as the size of the central volume (8) increases. The height H is less than 2000mm-2400mm.
In an embodiment of the invention, a user interface for environmental data (77) like temperature and humidity is provided along with another user interface for nutrient solution data (78) on the exterior sides of the pod (100), supported with software application based remote control and notification systems.
In another embodiment of the invention, plants and saplings are registered for monitoring using image processing through camera and/or manual entry. Saplings are provided a code like bar code, QR code or some customized code to register plants into the system. The code is scanned automatically by onboard cameraand/or using mobile device camera through a companion software application. The code is scanned using mobile device camera through a companion software application. Alternatively, there can be a on board camera to scan the code. The Application helps in providing customized environment conditions and nutrient mix specially defined for species of plants. Also, plants' life cycle tracking and harvest scheduler features is used.
In another embodiment of the invention, as illustrated in the flowchart I, nutrient solution mixing and delivery system works based on an inbuilt software application with the microcontroller in the control unit (29) by initially checking water level in main water tank. Contact type water level sensor like for example floating, resistive, capacitive or optical sensor or non-contact type sensor like ultrasonic sensor adopted in the invention informs about the water level. If water falls below a particular level, the water level sensor gets triggered. A notification of low water level is displayed on dashboard (78) as well as a notification is sent to the companion software application. User of the Pod (100) need to fill the main water tank (48) manually. Alternatively, the water filling step is made autonomous by providing a connection with continuous water supply source and a float valve or an electronic valve is used to refill water in main water tank. Only when the water level is sufficient, CU (29) turns on the main pump (112) for programmed watering duration and watering. By default, pumps (26) run for 15 seconds after each interval of 15 minutes. If control unit (CU) (29) is connected with cloud through microcontroller, it retrieves watering duration and watering interval based on species of plants inside the pod. Users can set custom watering duration and watering interval through the software application. The pump (112) fills the overhead tank (25) in the top portion. The array of small pumps (26) spray water to individual columns (27). The pumps (26) for individual columns (27) have different watering duration and watering intervals. It is controlled by CU (29) and set by user and/or by cloud based on plants specie. Columns have individual pump (26) running status lights (28) visible from exterior. Also, the companion software application keeps records ofpump (112) and pumps (26) running events. Water nutrient mix travels through root areas and collects at the bottom of the plant array, and flows back to the main water tank (48).

Flow chart- I
In another embodiment of the present invention, the nutrient mix is prepared autonomously inside pod (100). The nutrient solution management system is depicted in flow chart II, accordingly nutrient pumps (54) intake nutrient from the containers (53) and deliver it into the main water tank (48). The dosage of nutrient pumped by nutrient pumps (54) is recorded by CU with the software application and later used to calculate about the refilling of nutrients. EC and TDS sensors are submerged in the main water tank solution to send measurements to CU (29) intermittently. If the TDS and EC value is less than the threshold, pump nutrient for a calculated time (t). The time t is calculated using known flow rate, required EC value and required TDS value. For pH management, a pH sensor is placed inside main water tank (48). If value of pH drops below threshold, pH increasing solution is pumped in main water tank (48). If value of pH goes up above threshold, pH decreasing solution is pumped in main water tank (48). The solutions to increasepH is selected from a group comprising potassium hydroxide, potassium silicate, potassium carbonate and the solution for decreasing the pH is selected from a group comprising phosphoric acid, citric acid, acetic acid. The values of EC, TDS and pH thresholds are determined based on types of plants growing in the pod. The threshold values are obtained from cloud or/and is stored on the CU (29). Real-time feedback is provided to CU (29) by the EC, TDS and pH sensor while nutrient pumps (54) add nutrient in main water tank 48. The real-time feedback helps CU (29) to correct the dosage amount.
In an embodiment the control unit of the Pod (100) enables transfer and receiving of data over internet from a cloud-based server, as IOT based device. It adopts Message Queue Telemetry Transport (MQTT) as communication protocol. It enables synchronizing the control between the pod(100), cloud-based server and the mobile application. The cloud servers store the pod operating parameters like watering duration, watering interval, temperature, humidity, and the like.
In another embodiment of the invention, the Light control on the tower (9) is either timer based and/or sensor data based. The CU (29) operates the lights for 12-14hr per 24hr cycle based on the plant species. Sensors for measuring illumination may include LDR, PAR sensors or luxmeters, based on the accuracy of data required. If the pods are kept in an open position facing natural light, these sensors measures whether the required amount of daylight is received by the plants or not.

Flow chart II
The figure (35 (inset)) along with flow chart III illustrates the control of environment in the Pod (100). The temperature sensor(s), placed in periphery of plants, sends temperature measurement(s) to CU (29) intermittently. Contact type or non-contact type sensors are used for temperature measurement. If the temperature reported by them is not in the desired range, CU (29) triggers temperature alteration apparatus (68). The signals from temperature sensors acts as feedback loop to CU (29). The desired temperature range varies from 14? to 30? depending upon time of day and species of plants. The temperature range starts from lower temperature Limit (TL) to upper temperature limit (TU). The temperature alteration apparatus runs till temperature falls from TU or rises from TL by a threshold value (Th), about 4 ?. Once temperature crosses the threshold mark, CU (29) turns off the temperature alteration apparatus.
The flow chart III illustrates about the Humidity sensor placed inside the central volume (8) monitors the relative humidity required for plants growth. Humidity sensor(s) are placed in periphery of plants. Humidity measurement(s) are sent to CU (29) with software application, intermittently. Moisture holding substrate based resistive or capacitive sensors are used for humidity measurements. If the humidity exceeds the upper limit (HU), humidity management system starts running. The humidity management system brings down the moisture level. The internal air is recirculated into central volume (8) through fan(s) (73). The signals from humidity sensors acts as feedback loop to CU (29). The desired humidity range is determined by psychometric charts for plants with respective temperature. It also depends upon time of day and species of plants. The humidity management system runs till humidity falls down from HU by a threshold value (Th), let say 4% of RH. Relative humidity range between 50% to 70% is ideal for a wide range of plants. In case the humidity falls to a harmfully lower value for example to about say 30%, the pod(100) replaces the internal air by external air through intake and exhaust valves. The arrangement replenishes the humidity levels inside the pod.
As depicted in flow chart III, The CO2 concentration in the air directly influences the amount of photosynthesis (growth) of plants. Plants in the closed pod may deplete the CO2 concentration. Our studies show increasing CO2 concentrations to 1000-1500 ppm provides a CO2 fertilizer effect. Measuring of the concentration is done by housing a CO2 sensor on the inward side of the Plan array portion (2), or an average depletion of CO2 for the volume per day is measured through tests and used for subsequent timer controlling. A feedback control loop based on thedata operates the valve which releases the CO2 from the apparatus (75) into the ducting (71).

Flow chart III
Thus, the present invention provides a grow pod (100) for growing healthy plant saplings in a convenient way, the device (100) and the method thereof resolves the issues related to the light, nutrient and temperature control. Various plants like for example household vegetables - Cherry Tomato, Chilies, Spinach, Coriander, Batavia Lettuce, Capsicum, Bok Choy, Broccoli and Mint are grown in a facile manner through the grow pod(100).
, Claims:WE CLAIM
1. An automated grow pod (100) device for growing plant saplings, said device comprising a cap portion (1), a plant array portion (2), and a base portion (3),
wherein -
the grow pod is of two chambers (A) and (B) connected through one or more coupler (6) to close and open;
the cap portion (1) of each chamber (A) and (B) comprises an inlet (21) for supply of nutrient solution, pipes (22) to connect to connecting point (23) and nozzles (24);
the plant array portion (2) of each chamber (A) and (B) comprises vertically constituted plant array modules (17), wherein there are singular or multiple vertical columns (27) for channelizing the nutrient solution from nozzles (24) upward, one or more plant holder units (PHUs) (34) are attached on vertical support elements (35), hanger elements (36) on the supports (35) on which the plant holder units (34) are inserted through specific holes (37);
the base portion (3) in the chamber (A) (4) comprises solution compartment; and chamber (B) comprises environment control compartment (5) with microcontroller embedded control unit (29), hollow modular tower (9) and sensors for controlling water circulation, temperature, humidity, lightand carbon dioxide.
2. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pod(100) is portable with aid of wheels (12) fixed at the bottom of base portion (3).
3. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plant array portion (2) of the chambers (A) and (B) bend in horizontal plane in a concave form to createan empty enclosed space, forming a cylindrical central volume (8) in closed state.
4. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein size of the pod is altered by adopting varied number of bilaterally symmetrical vertical plant array module segments (17).
5. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nozzles (24) comprise ultrasonic foggers (111) to convert solution to mist.
6. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the plant holder units (34) are selected from group comprising single or multiple holed units or trays.
7. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensors are housed on vertical support system (35).
8. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tower (9) is a holder of light source and duct to circulate air through the vertical length of cylindrical central volume (8).
9. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the sensors are selected from a group comprising contact and non-contact based sensors.
10. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the solution compartment (4) comprises tank (48) to hold nutrient solution.
11. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the tank (48) comprises pump(112) to carry solution to cap portion (3).
12. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit (29) automates the operation of the operation through the sensors.
13. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the temperature is maintained between 14? to 30? through temperature sensors.
14. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the source of light is selected from a group comprising light emitting diode (LED), fluorescent lamp, metal halide (MH) lamp, and high-pressure sodium (HPS) lamp.
15. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pump (26) provides water through individual columns (27).
16. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the air is circulated in the cylindrical central volume (8) through duct (71).
17. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the carbon dioxide is generated in carbon dioxide unit (75) and circulated through duct (9).
18. The automated grow pod (100) as claimed in claim 1, wherein the pod is of material selected from a group comprising Aluminium, Stainless steel, mild steel, Polypropylene, Polyethylene, Polyvinyl chloride, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene and combination thereof.