DESC:F O R M 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970 (39 of 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
[See section 10 and rule 13]

1. TITLE OF THE INVENTION: SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR IOT ENABLED VERTICAL GARDEN

2. APPLICANT (A) NAME: F2S AGRO TECHNOLOGIES PVT LTD

(B) NATIONALITY: INDIA

(C) ADDRESS: NO.1064, 18TH MAIN, 2ND STAGE, BTM LAYOUT, BANGALORE, KARNATAKA, INDIA - 560076

THE FOLLOWING SPECIFICATION PARTICULARLY DESCRIBES THE NATURE OF THIS INVENTION AND THE MANNER IN WHICH IT IS TO BE PERFORMED

[001] TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[002] The present disclosure relates to a vertical gardening system, more particularly an IOT (Internet of Things) enabled modular and self-sustainable vertical garden.
[003] BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[004] Urbanization in India is an outcome of the domino effect of the globalized world. By magnitude, in 1901, only 25 million people constituting 10.84 percent of the population lived in urban India, however during the span of 2001-2021 the urban Indian population will reach nearly 550 million. Urban agglomerations are characterized by limited spaces. This directly affects the quality of life. Also, straining the limited available resources in these areas. All these pose hazards both to the environment and to the health of the urban population, mentally and physically.
[005] As urbanization leads to rapid decline in open spaces across our cities, a rethink for the sustainability of urban biodiversity and maintenance of essential ecosystem services is a must. The rate at which urbanization is taking place is exponential resulting in urban sprawls eating away much of open spaces.
[006] Environmental degradation continues to be a major problem in many cities as the open spaces available per capita are decreasing. By 2030 more than 57% of the world’s population is expected to live in urban areas with the figure expected to touch 70% by 2050. Urban settlements are the major source of GHG (Greenhouse Gas) emissions and at the same time making them more vulnerable to global environmental change impacts.
[007] The increasing pace of construction due to urbanization causes a lot of environmental problems. Green areas’ contributions to the ecosystem and effects on people are significant. Therefore, the need for green areas has recently been increasing.
[008] In line with this requirement, studies in order to integrate nature into construction are called as “vertical garden”. The vertical gardens not only increase green cover in urban areas but also have some functions such as sound and heat isolation, energy productivity, air quality improvement, heat island reduction, location acquisition, creating agricultural area, aesthetics occurrence, and positive contribution to human psychology.
[009] At present, deployed vertical garden system are plagued with some problems, which are stated below:
[010] Maintenance frequency and Difficulty
Vertical gardens need maintenance because they are living systems, maintenance frequency depends on the type of vertical garden, climatic conditions and plant varieties. It must be considered that maintenance which will be done in vertical surface is more difficult than in the horizontal surface. Lack of maintenance is being the major reason for depletion of Gardens/Vertical gardens.
[011] Installation of a vertical garden requires skilled labour in designing, welding and fabrication at the user site, based on the availability of space.
[012] User during relocation have difficulty in shifting the vertical garden to new location because of bulky fixed structure.
[013] Fixed Vertical Garden Structure imposes difficulty in cleaning the space
[014] Watering the vertical garden using fixed timer with dripper arrangement doesn’t ensure optimal usage of water and maximum plant growth to the vertical garden. Watering depends on the environmental conditions around the plants too.
[015] During rainfall the plants in the vertical garden gets damaged due to erosion of nutrients from the soil. It is very important to retain the plant nutrients as in vertical garden plants are grown in limited space.
[016] Rain water on the vertical garden can lead to messy surroundings. The excess water in the plants because rainfall can lead to the death of plants and also become a breeding spot for the disease spreading insects.
[017] The excess water coming out from the pots can lead to staining the floors and wastage of water.
[018] Wall mounted vertical gardens eventually dampen the wall because of excess water.
[019] In summary, there is a need for a modular, portable vertical smart gardening system that can address all the above mentioned problems.
[020] Several aspects of the present invention are directed to an efficient vertical gardening system.

[021] SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[022] An aspect of the present invention is a vertical gardening system, more particularly the garden system is expandable vertically with the characteristics of portability, modularity and featuring techniques to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and automated drip irrigation by sensing environmental conditions surrounding the vertical gardening system.
[023] In an embodiment a vertical gardening system, the system comprising: water troughs interconnected horizontally and vertically, wherein each trough contains back supporting wall for attaching it on a building wall, or the trough is fixed to the building wall directly, and it further comprises at least two flowerpots for soil and plants, wherein each pot is attached to the water trough with at least one fastening element and the water trough is interconnected with the pot by an irrigation element for distribution of the liquid to the pot, at least two water troughs form a row in the horizontal plane, the row being connected with other row of water troughs with an overflow tube allowing the transport of liquid to lower rows of water troughs, and further each water trough contains a sidewalls having an opening for distribution of the liquid to adjacent troughs.
[024] In further embodiment system is expandable vertically with the characteristics of portability, modularity and featuring techniques to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and automated drip irrigation by sensing environmental conditions surrounding the vertical gardening system. The vertical gardening system, wherein each vertically extending recessed portion includes an attachment portion for allowing attachment of the recessed portion to the respective upright of the vertical garden system, the attachment portion allows ready, installation and replacement of the garden module in the vertical garden system, wherein the vertical height of the garden module can be readily varied, in use, by sliding the garden module vertically up and down the uprights and then securing the garden module in position.
[025] In an embodiment, the system also comprises a plurality of sensor hubs in predetermined locations in the vertical garden for data collection and monitoring key elements in the growing of plants, including lighting, humidity, temp, soil moisture, and elements that influence plant growth.
[026] In an exemplary aspect, the present invention further provides a vertical garden system wherein the water supply per pot can be regulated as per plant requirement. The vertical garden system of the present invention comprises a frame; drip irrigation pipe(s); drainage pipe(s); drain tray; and optionally pots or plant containers.
[027] In another embodiments, the invention provides a green environment to urban agglomerations through vertical gardens, with the characteristics of portability, modularity and featuring techniques to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and automated drip irrigation by sensing environmental conditions surrounding the vertical gardening system. Thus, enabling to build a beautiful vertical garden through all seasons, in places which are never thought of as possible could be inhabited by plants.
[028] According to the exemplary aspects, invention provides, a standalone system can be installed in non-conventional areas also, like on the streets, near metros, industrial landscape, villas, apartments, Hotels, Hospitals.
[029] In an aspect, modularity of this system is its biggest strength.
[030] In an embodiment, this system can be conveniently placed at locations of customer interest. Thus exhibiting the property of portability.
[031] In a further aspect, the invention has a robust mechanical design.
[032] In another embodiment, the system minimizes the water requirements.
[033] In additional embodiment, extensive research on medicinal plants has been carried out by the inventors. In this portable vertical gardening system, useful medicinal plants can be grown.
[034] In an embodiments, service and maintenance of product system is yet another important feature that provides the customer with monthly and annual packages.
[035] In an embodiment, the vertical gardening system, the system comprising:
(a) a hardware Internet of Things (IoT) hub comprising a network interface to couple the IoT hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(b) at least one IoT device communicatively coupled to the IoT hub over a wireless communication network, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) to control specified vertical gardening system through IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, wherein the IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions and transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel;
(c) the IoT hub comprising a remote control code learning logic circuitry to retrieve remote control codes from a master control code database on the IoT service responsive to an end user entering information identifying the vertical gardening system via a user device, a remote control code database to store the remote control codes usable to control the vertical gardening system, and a control logic circuitry to generate remote control commands using the remote control codes, the remote control commands selected by the control logic circuitry in response to the current conditions and input from the end user provided via the user device, the IoT hub to transmit the commands to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel; and
(d) the IoT device to responsively transmit the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the vertical gardening system.
[036] In an embodiment, important benefits of the invention are as follows,
[037] Helps in building a healthy living space by improving air quality.
[038] Portable modular vertical gardens increases the oxygen levels and reduces the presence of CO2.
[039] Decreases the carbon footprint in the landscape.
[040] System acts as a stress reliever/buster to urban people.
[041] It has the potential to save energy for home.
[042] Helps in mitigating the Urban Island Effect.
[043] Reduces the amount of indoor air pollution at home.
[044] Improves air circulation.
[045] Automated drip irrigation system that conserves water.
[046] Need based watering that improves the growth of the plant and minimizes the water use.
[047] According to an exemplary aspect, several applications and uses of the invention include,
[048] Creates a healthy atmosphere at villas and apartments.
[049] Creative method to inculcate knowledge about environment and gardening in kindergarten schools.
[050] Helpful in enlivening the ambiance at hotels and restaurants.
[051] Helps to develop clean and healthy atmosphere at clinics and hospitals.
[052] Provides a green area to industries, corporate offices and technology Park.
[053] Helpful to conserve water through rainwater harvesting structure and automated drip-Irrigation.
[054] Vertical gardening improves the aesthetics of the area.
[055] Helpful for the building to be certified as green buildings by securing IGBC ratings.
[056] Useful to be deployed at frequently populated spaces, regions where it is thought that gardens cannot be maintained.
[057] Useful to engage kids and school going children and helpful to detach themselves from the clutches of Digital tools – mobiles, iPad etc
[058] Several aspects of the invention are described below with reference to examples for illustration. However, one skilled in the relevant art will recognize that the invention can be practiced without one or more of the specific details or with other methods, components, materials and so forth. In other instances, well-known structures, materials, or operations are not shown in detail to avoid obscuring the features of the invention. Furthermore, the features/aspects described can be practiced in various combinations, though only some of the combinations are described herein for conciseness.

[059] BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[060] Example embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings briefly described below.
[061] FIG. 1 illustrates the complete structure of the modular and portable vertical gardening system. It depicts the mechanical structures like the pots arrangement, rainwater harvesting system, watering mechanism – by drip irrigation and tank placement, according to the aspect of present invention.
[062] FIG. 2 illustrates the various components of the vertical gardening system with balloon numbering, tap, elbow and dripper system, according to the aspect of present invention.
[063] FIG. 3 illustrates the entire watering line system of the vertical garden. It also depicts the placement of dripper on the lateral pipes according to the aspect of present invention.
[064] FIG. 4 illustrates the placement of the submersible pump and tapping of water lines from tank according to the aspect of present invention.
[065] FIG. 5 illustrates the list of components in the structure, as described by balloon numbering in FIG 1. It is the perspective view and individual components are illuatrated, according to the aspect of present invention.
[066] FIG. 6 illustrates the software architecture of the invention, according to the aspect of present invention.
[067] FIG. 7 (A and B) illustrates the example user interface design to collect the irrigation run-off from the plants and feed it back to the system, according to the aspect of present invention.
[068] FIG. 8 (A and B) illustrates the example user interface design for real-time monitoring of maintenance request, according to the aspect of present invention.
[069] FIG. 9 (A and B) illustrates the example user interface design for acknowledgment regarding the maintenance request, according to the aspect of present invention.
[070] FIG. 10 illustrates the example user interface design for real-time monitoring of data like temperature, humidity and soil moisture, according to the aspect of present invention.
[071] FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating the details of a digital processing system in which various aspects of the present invention are operative by execution of appropriate execution modules, firmware or hardware components, according to the aspect of present invention.
[072] In the drawings, like reference numbers generally indicate identical, functionally similar, and/or structurally similar elements. The drawing in which an element first appears is indicated by the leftmost digit(s) in the corresponding reference number.

[073] DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[074] In an embodiment a vertical gardening system, the system comprising: water troughs interconnected horizontally and vertically, wherein each trough contains back supporting wall for attaching it on a building wall, or the trough is fixed to the building wall directly, and it further comprises at least two flowerpots for soil and plants, wherein each pot is attached to the water trough with at least one fastening element and the water trough is interconnected with the pot by an irrigation element for distribution of the liquid to the pot, at least two water troughs form a row in the horizontal plane, the row being connected with other row of water troughs with an overflow tube allowing the transport of liquid to lower rows of water troughs, and further each water trough contains a sidewalls having an opening for distribution of the liquid to adjacent troughs.
[075] In further embodiment system is expandable vertically with the characteristics of portability, modularity and featuring techniques to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and automated drip irrigation by sensing environmental conditions surrounding the vertical gardening system. The vertical gardening system, wherein each vertically extending recessed portion includes an attachment portion for allowing attachment of the recessed portion to the respective upright of the vertical garden system, the attachment portion allows ready, installation and replacement of the garden module in the vertical garden system, wherein the vertical height of the garden module can be readily varied, in use, by sliding the garden module vertically up and down the uprights and then securing the garden module in position.
[076] In an embodiment, the vertical gardening system, wherein the body includes a base portion, the base portion including a number of outlets spaced along the base portion to provide a top down watering arrangement, when the garden module is located above a lower garden module in the vertical garden system, such that water accumulating in the garden module is able to exit through the number of outlets and is directed towards the lower garden module.
[077] In further embodiment, the vertical gardening system, wherein the system also comprises a plurality of sensor hubs in predetermined locations in the vertical garden for data collection and monitoring key elements in the growing of plants, including lighting, humidity, temp, soil moisture, and elements that influence plant growth. The vertical gardening system has the water supply per pot can be regulated as per plant requirement. The vertical garden system of the present invention comprises a frame; drip irrigation pipe(s); drainage pipe(s); drain tray; and optionally pots or plant containers, wherein the water troughs contains a sensor for sensing liquid level in the trough , wherein the sensor is connected with electromagnetic valve to initiate automatic start of the irrigation.
[078] In an embodiment, the vertical gardening system, the system comprising:
(e) a hardware Internet of Things (IoT) hub comprising a network interface to couple the IoT hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(f) at least one IoT device communicatively coupled to the IoT hub over a wireless communication network, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) to control specified vertical gardening system through IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, wherein the IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions and transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel;
(g) the IoT hub comprising a remote control code learning logic circuitry to retrieve remote control codes from a master control code database on the IoT service responsive to an end user entering information identifying the vertical gardening system via a user device, a remote control code database to store the remote control codes usable to control the vertical gardening system, and a control logic circuitry to generate remote control commands using the remote control codes, the remote control commands selected by the control logic circuitry in response to the current conditions and input from the end user provided via the user device, the IoT hub to transmit the commands to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel; and
(h) the IoT device to responsively transmit the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the vertical gardening system.
[079] In an embodiment, the system as in claim 7, wherein the sensor comprises temperature sensor, and the current conditions comprises temperature, humidity, soil moisture wherein the input from the end user provided by the user device comprises a desired temperature, wherein the control logic circuitry generates the remote control commands to turn on or off the air conditioner and/or heater to achieve the desired temperature, wherein the remote control code learning logic circuitry is communicatively coupled to an IR/RF interface integrated on the IoT hub, the remote control code learning logic circuitry to learn remote control codes directly from original remote controls designed for operation with the electronics equipment by capturing the remote control codes from the original remote controls via the IR/RF interface.
[080] In yet another embodiment, a method comprising:
(a) communicatively coupling an Internet of Things (IoT) hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(b) communicatively coupling at least one IoT device to the IoT hub over a wireless communication channel, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) blaster to control specified electronics equipment via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system;
(c) sensing current conditions with a sensor on the IoT device, the current conditions associated with the operation of the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system;
(d) transmitting the current conditions over the wireless communication channel from the IoT device to the IoT hub;
(e) analyzing the current conditions in combination with user input to select remote control commands using remote control codes at the IoT hub, wherein the IoT hub comprises a remote control code learning logic circuitry to retrieve the remote control codes from a master control code database on the IoT service responsive to the user entering information identifying the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system; and
(f) transmitting the remote control commands from the IoT hub to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel, the IoT device responsively transmitting the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system.
[081] The method, further comprising: communicatively coupling a plurality of additional IoT devices to the IoT hub, each of the IoT devices comprising an IR or RF blaster to control different types of electronics equipment via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, each IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions associated with the operation of the different electronics equipment, each IoT device to transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel.
[082] In an embodiment, a system comprising:
(a) a hardware Internet of Things (IoT) hub comprising a network interface to couple the IoT hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(b) at least one IoT device communicatively coupled to the IoT hub over a wireless communication channel, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) blaster to control specified vertical gardening system via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, the IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions associated with the operation of the vertical gardening system, the IoT device to transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel;
(c) the IoT hub comprising a remote control code database to store remote control codes usable to control the vertical gardening system, the IoT hub further comprising control logic circuitry to generate remote control commands using the remote control codes, the remote control commands selected by the control logic circuitry in response to the current conditions and input from an end user provided via a user device, the IoT hub to transmit the commands to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel;
(d) the IoT device to responsively transmit the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the vertical gardening system; and
(e) a plurality of additional IoT devices communicatively coupled to the IoT hub, each of the IoT devices comprising an IR or RF blaster to control different types of electronics equipment via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, each IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions associated with the operation of the different electronics equipment, each IoT device to transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel.
[083] 1. EXAMPLE ENVIRONMENT:
[084] Below is an example environment in which various aspects of the present invention can be implemented.
[085] The primary objective of the present invention is to provide a green environment to urban agglomerations through vertical gardens, with the characteristics of portability, modularity and featuring techniques to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and automated drip irrigation by sensing environmental conditions surrounding the vertical gardening system. Thus, enabling to build a beautiful vertical garden through all seasons, in places which are never thought of as possible could be inhabited by plants.
[086] The mechanical structure of the vertical garden is lightweight (FIG 1). The structure is a modular standalone structure. This three dimensional panel is made from powder coated galvanized steel. It consists of minimum 4 rows and designed to hold 16 to 20 plants on the structure. These plants are placed in plastic pots filled with soil composition of 50% red soil, 30% organic manure, 20% coco pith, 30ml of panchagavya in 10 litres of water. Panchagavya is a mixture prepared by mixing five products of cow namely cow dung, cow urine, cow milk and two derived products curd and ghee. It is an organic product that provides growth and immunity to plant. This organic solution consisting of soil, manure, coco pith and panchagavya are used as a substrate for growth of the plants. By its tendency, it retains the soil moisture in the pots and minimizes the water usage.
[087] Following paragraph and flowchart describes the workings of the invention,
[088] The structure is modular and portable, with pillar left bottom (3), pillar left top (4), pillar right top (5), pillar right bottom (6) and pillar top (2) connected with hex nut (9) and bolts (8). The whole structure is supported by base left (1) and base right (2) mounted on 4 caster wheels (13) with the help of flate plate (12).
Water troughs (44) interconnected horizontally and vertically, wherein each trough (44) is mounted on pillars (3, 4, 5, and 6) and flate plate (16) connected with elbows (37). Flate plates contains at least two flowerpots (22) for soil and plants, wherein each pot (22) is attached to the water trough (44) and drippers (35) for distribution of the liquid to the pot (22). Water from the tank (47) enters through the troughs (44) connected by elbows (37) and distributed to the pots (22) through drippers (35). the structure has a polycarbonate sheet (32) mounted on the top (7) and is connected to series of water troughs (23 to 31) for collection and distribution of liquid to tank (47) and fastened with the help of clamps (17).

Item Quantity Part Name
1 1 Base_Left
2 1 Base_Right
3 1 Pillar_Left Bottom
4 1 Pillar_Left Top
5 1 Pillar_Right Top
6 1 Pillar_Right Bottom
7 2 Pillar Top
8 6 Bolt M8
9 6 Hex Nut_M8
10 2 Bolt_M8
11 2 Hex Nut_M8
12 1 Flate plate v1
13 4 Caster Wheel _ 3in
14 16 Bolt M6_1
15 18 HEX NUT M6
16 4 Flate plate_H
17 1 Clamp
18 1 Base L Plate_25in
19 1 Tank_Bottom
20 1 Tank_Top
21 1 Filter Plate
22 16 Pot
23 1 3" Pipe
24 1 3" to 2" reducer v1
25 1 3" End Cap v1
26 3 2" Pipe 80mm
27 1 2" Elbow v1
28 1 2" Pipe_1200mm
29 1 2" Elbow v1 (2)
30 1 2" Elbow v1 (1)
31 1 2" Pipe _120 mm
32 1 Polycarbonate Sheet
33 2 Bolt M6_1 v1
35 16 Dripper
37 15 Elbow
43 1 Tap
44 1 Lateral Pipe
46 1 Submersible Pump
47 1 Tank
TABLE 1: Individual components of vertical gardening system
[089] Individual components of vertical gardening system are explained in Table 1.
[090] Sensors are presents at different locations to collect information related to temperature, humidity and so on.
[091] The top most row of the mechanical design consists of flowering plants, the second row has medicinal plants and the last rows consists of oxygen plants and consumables like green leafy vegetables. Inventors have chosen the plants based on its nature of compactness and denseness.
[092] The tap, stack placements, lateral pipes and dripper systems are shown in FIG 2 and FIG 3. The tank, tank base and submersible pump is shown in FIG 4.
[093] IoT enabled automated drip irrigation system has been employed in this structure. Drippers are being placed at every pot to irrigate them. Water is transported to the entire system using 16 mm leak proof emitter lines. At the bottom is a stainless steel water storage tank, the excess water from the plants will be collected in the water storage tank. The drippers are turned on and off based on the inputs given from the sensor. Soil moisture sensor, temperature and humidity sensors are used in this system.
[094] Soil moisture sensor is positioned in direct contact with the soil in the plastic pots. Based on average value of the reading from the deployed sensors, the frequency of irrigation is determined.
[095] The temperature and humidity sensors have positioned on the structural arm close to the structure to read the ambient temperature and humidity of the atmosphere. On the basis of the real time input from these sensors, drip irrigation is being done. Also, the frequency of irrigation cycles may be increased during the days and may be reduced during the nights. This minimizes the water usage by the plants, thus reducing the run-off.
[096] The perspective view and individual components are shown in FIG 5.
[097] Thus, this system provides a solution to inconsistent moisture management in plants. This method is the automatic mode of operation. This is more efficient when compared to the timer based automation system, where even without knowing whether the soil has enough moisture based on time for a stipulated duration the irrigation will be happening.
[098] Another method of irrigation for the plants is based on self watering system, which is the manual mode of operation. This mode can be changed between automatic to manual and vice-versa using an in-house built mobile application.
[099] 2. GENERAL FLOW:
[0100] Below is the general flow by which vertical garden is implemented. Though shown in a specific sequence, the steps may be performed in a different sequence than that depicted below, as suited in the specific environment, as will be apparent to one skilled in the relevant arts.
[0101] SOFTWARE DESIGN FOR THE VERTICAL GARDEN:
[0102] The software designs are shown in FIG 6. Following are the steps of invention describing the software architecture of the invention.
[0103] Step 1: Vertical gardening system that we have developed has sensor hubs in predetermined locations for external data collection. Soil moisture, Temperature, Humidity, Light intensity are the major determinants of plant growth. The hardware has been programmed to send the real time data to the cloud through IoT technology. Through this the key elements that influence the growth of the plant are monitored.
[0104] Step 2: This raw data from the sensors are processed and stored in the cloud.
[0105] Step 3: The refined data set are fetched from the cloud and displayed in the mobile application.
[0106] Step 4: The mobile application features to have the information about the plants.
[0107] Step 5: The plants can be watered in two ways, either in manual mode or by automatic by sensors input. This can also be set in mobile application.
[0108] Step 6: The customers can request for maintenance through the mobile application
[0109] Step 7: When such a requests are raised, through the cloud the back end system is intimated to take necessary actions
[0110] Step 8: Through the mobile app, the level of the tank can also be monitored in real time.
[0111] During test runs, it was found that the accuracy of the system is 100% (except for the cases where the commuter has switched off his mobile internet).
[0112] It should be appreciated that the above noted features can be implemented in various embodiments as a desired combination of one or more of hardware, execution modules and firmware. The description is continued with respect to one embodiment in which various features are operative when execution modules are executed.
[0113] 3. USER INTERFACE:
[0114] Following figures show the user interface model for the vertical garden.
[0115] Sample User Interfaces (UI)
[0116] Following figures depicts sample user interfaces that enable users of vertical garden to monitor and place a request according to embodiments of the invention. This UI tool can be either used as a standalone application or accessed through a web interface as seen in following figures.
[0117] Demo Mobile application:
[0118] The base of the system has a collection tray. It is designed to collect the irrigation run-off from the plants and feed it back to the system (FIG 7 A and 7 B). Along with this, for maintenance of proper water flow in the system, submersible pumps have been used. Based on the height of the vertical garden structure the pump capacity can be chosen. Beneath the structure, a tank has been placed as a storehouse for water. (FIG 7 A and 7 B)
[0119] The system is designed to collect the rain water and use it to irrigate these plants. This water tank also acts as a collection device for the rainwater harvesting system. The structure has also been designed to tap solar energy by placing solar panels. This gives added feature of harnessing the insolation directly.
[0120] This said mobile application acts as a real-time request and monitoring of maintenance, for example monthly maintenance (FIG 8 and FIG 9).
[0121] This said mobile application acts as a real-time monitor to read the data like Temperature, Humidity and Soil moisture from the surrounding. It also acts as a trigger to activate the relay to irrigate the plants in the structure when placed in automatic mode. The entire operation of the structure is handled by the cloud. So, the entire vertical garden system can be operated from anywhere and also monitored for its operation (FIG 10).
[0122] This kind of automated irrigation mechanism has been deployed in this upright system.
[0123] The structure that we have built is extremely modular and can be deployed at almost all locations to create a good aesthetic effect to the landscape. The entire system is portable and can be stationed at areas of one’s own choice. The system is designed with four wheels for swift movement. For the purpose of safety, two wheels are provided with an option to be locked. This design is developed has given the scope to leverage the process of growing plants in vertical spaces.
[0124] 4. HARDWARE:
[0125] Below is a block diagram illustrating the details of a digital processing system in which various aspects of the present invention are operative by execution of appropriate execution modules, firmware or hardware components. (FIG 11)
[0126] Digital processing system may correspond to each of customer system, merchant system or server noted above. Digital processing system may contain one or more processors (such as a central processing unit (CPU)), random access memory (RAM), secondary memory, graphics controller (GPU), primary display unit, network interfaces like (WLAN), and input interfaces (not shown).
[0127] CPU executes instructions stored in RAM to provide several features of the present invention. CPU may contain multiple processing units, with each processing unit potentially being designed for a specific task. Alternatively, CPU may contain only a single general purpose processing unit. RAM may receive instructions from secondary/system memory.
[0128] Graphics controller (GPU) generates display signals (e.g., in RGB format) to primary display unit based on data/instructions received from CPU. Primary display unit contains a display screen (e.g. monitor, touchscreen) to display the images defined by the display signals. Input interfaces may correspond to a keyboard, a pointing device (e.g., touch-pad, mouse), a touchscreen, etc. which enable the various inputs to be provided. Network interface provides connectivity to a network (e.g., using Internet Protocol), and may be used to communicate with other connected systems. Network interface may provide such connectivity over a wire (in the case of TCP/IP based communication) or wirelessly (in the case of WIFI, Bluetooth based communication).
[0129] Secondary memory may contain hard drive (mass storage), flash memory, and removable storage drive. Secondary memory may store the data (e.g., the specific requests sent, the responses received, etc.) and executable modules, which enable the digital processing system to provide several features in accordance with the present invention.
[0130] Some or all of the data and instructions may be provided on a removable storage unit (SD card), and the data and instructions may be read and provided by removable storage drive to CPU. Floppy drive, magnetic tape drive, CD-ROM drive, DVD Drive, Flash memory, removable memory chip (PCMCIA Card, EPROM) are other examples of such removable storage drive.
[0131] Removable storage unit may be implemented using storage format compatible with removable storage drive such that removable storage drive can read the data and instructions. Thus, removable storage unit includes a computer readable storage medium having stored therein executable modules and/or data. However, the computer (or machine, in general) readable storage medium can be in other forms (e.g., non-removable, random access, etc.). CPU may retrieve the executable modules, and execute them to provide various features of the present invention described above.
[0132] According to the exemplary aspects, important uses of the invention,
[0133] This standalone system can be installed in non-conventional areas also, like on the streets, near metros, industrial landscape, villas, apartments, Hotels, Hospitals.
[0134] Modularity of this system is its biggest strength.
[0135] Compared to the other systems in the market, this system can be conveniently placed at locations of customer interest. Thus exhibiting the property of portability.
[0136] The mechanical design is very robust.
[0137] Present day technologies in market employ hydroponics. The system that we have developed has the potential to minimize the water requirements.
[0138] Extensive research on medicinal plants has been carried out by the inventors. In this portable vertical gardening system, useful medicinal plants can be grown.
[0139] Service and maintenance of product system is yet another important feature that we give to the customer with monthly and annual packages
[0140] According to the exemplary aspects, following are the important benefits of the invention,
[0141] Helps in building a healthy living space by improving air quality.
[0142] Portable modular vertical gardens increases the oxygen levels and reduces the presence of CO2.
[0143] Decreases the carbon footprint in the landscape.
[0144] System acts as a stress reliever/buster to urban people.
[0145] It has the potential to save energy for home.
[0146] Helps in mitigating the Urban Island Effect.
[0147] Reduces the amount of indoor air pollution at home.
[0148] Improves air circulation.
[0149] Automated drip irrigation system, conserves water.
[0150] Need based watering will improve the growth of the plant.
[0151] According to an exemplary aspect, several applications of the invention include,
[0152] Creates a healthy atmosphere at Villas and Apartments.
[0153] Creative method to inculcate knowledge about environment and gardening in Kindergarten Schools.
[0154] Helpful in enlivening the ambiance at Hotels and Restaurants.
[0155] Helps to develop clean and healthy atmosphere at Clinics and Hospitals.
[0156] Provides a green area to industries, corporate offices and technology park.
[0157] According to an exemplary aspect, several uses of the invention include,
[0158] Helpful to conserve water through rainwater harvesting structure and automated drip-Irrigation.
[0159] Vertical gardening improves the aesthetics of the area.
[0160] Helpful for the building to be certified as green buildings by securing IGBC ratings.
[0161] Useful to be deployed at frequently populated spaces, regions where it is thought that gardens cannot be maintained.
[0162] Useful to engage kids and school going children and helpful to detach themselves from the clutches of Digital tools – mobiles, iPad to name a few.
[0163] Reference throughout this specification to “one embodiment”, “an embodiment”, or similar language means that a particular feature, structure, or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases “in one embodiment”, “in an embodiment” and similar language throughout this specification may, but do not necessarily, all refer to the same embodiment.
[0164] It should be understood that the figures and/or screen shots shown above highlighting the functionality and advantages of the present invention are presented for example purposes only. The present invention is sufficiently flexible and configurable, such that it may be utilized in ways other than that shown in the figures.
,CLAIMS: CLAIMS

I/We Claim,
1) A vertical gardening system, the system comprising: water troughs interconnected horizontally and vertically, wherein each trough contains back supporting wall for attaching it on a building wall, or the trough is fixed to the building wall directly, and it further comprises at least two flowerpots for soil and plants, wherein each pot is attached to the water trough with at least one fastening element and the water trough is interconnected with the pot by an irrigation element for distribution of the liquid to the pot, at least two water troughs form a row in the horizontal plane, the row being connected with other row of water troughs with an overflow tube allowing the transport of liquid to lower rows of water troughs, and further each water trough contains a sidewalls having an opening for distribution of the liquid to adjacent troughs.
2) The vertical gardening system, as claimed in claim 1 wherein system is expandable vertically with the characteristics of portability, modularity and featuring techniques to conserve water through rainwater harvesting and automated drip irrigation by sensing environmental conditions surrounding the vertical gardening system.
3) The vertical gardening system, as claimed in claim 2, wherein each vertically extending recessed portion includes an attachment portion for allowing attachment of the recessed portion to the respective upright of the vertical garden system, the attachment portion allows ready, installation and replacement of the garden module in the vertical garden system, wherein the vertical height of the garden module can be readily varied, in use, by sliding the garden module vertically up and down the uprights and then securing the garden module in position.
4) The vertical gardening system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the body includes a base portion, the base portion including a number of outlets spaced along the base portion to provide a top down watering arrangement, when the garden module is located above a lower garden module in the vertical garden system, such that water accumulating in the garden module is able to exit through the number of outlets and is directed towards the lower garden module.
5) The vertical gardening system, as claimed in claim 1, wherein the system also comprises a plurality of sensor hubs in predetermined locations in the vertical garden for data collection and monitoring key elements in the growing of plants, including lighting, humidity, temp, soil moisture, and elements that influence plant growth.
6) The vertical gardening system, as claimed in claim 1 to claim 5, wherein the water supply per pot can be regulated as per plant requirement. The vertical garden system of the present invention comprises a frame; drip irrigation pipe(s); drainage pipe(s); drain tray; and optionally pots or plant containers, wherein the water troughs contains a sensor for sensing liquid level in the trough , wherein the sensor is connected with electromagnetic valve to initiate automatic start of the irrigation.
7) The vertical gardening system, the system comprising:
(a) a hardware Internet of Things (IoT) hub comprising a network interface to couple the IoT hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(b) at least one IoT device communicatively coupled to the IoT hub over a wireless communication network, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) to control specified vertical gardening system through IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, wherein the IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions and transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel;
(c) the IoT hub comprising a remote control code learning logic circuitry to retrieve remote control codes from a master control code database on the IoT service responsive to an end user entering information identifying the vertical gardening system via a user device, a remote control code database to store the remote control codes usable to control the vertical gardening system, and a control logic circuitry to generate remote control commands using the remote control codes, the remote control commands selected by the control logic circuitry in response to the current conditions and input from the end user provided via the user device, the IoT hub to transmit the commands to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel; and
(c) the IoT device to responsively transmit the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the vertical gardening system.
8) The system as in claim 7, wherein the sensor comprises temperature sensor, and the current conditions comprises temperature, humidity, soil moisture wherein the input from the end user provided by the user device comprises a desired temperature, wherein the control logic circuitry generates the remote control commands to turn on or off the air conditioner and/or heater to achieve the desired temperature, wherein the remote control code learning logic circuitry is communicatively coupled to an IR/RF interface integrated on the IoT hub, the remote control code learning logic circuitry to learn remote control codes directly from original remote controls designed for operation with the electronics equipment by capturing the remote control codes from the original remote controls via the IR/RF interface.
9) A method comprising:
(a) communicatively coupling an Internet of Things (IoT) hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(b) communicatively coupling at least one IoT device to the IoT hub over a wireless communication channel, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) blaster to control specified electronics equipment via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system;
(c) sensing current conditions with a sensor on the IoT device, the current conditions associated with the operation of the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system;
(d) transmitting the current conditions over the wireless communication channel from the IoT device to the IoT hub;
(e) analyzing the current conditions in combination with user input to select remote control commands using remote control codes at the IoT hub, wherein the IoT hub comprises a remote control code learning logic circuitry to retrieve the remote control codes from a master control code database on the IoT service responsive to the user entering information identifying the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system; and
(f) transmitting the remote control commands from the IoT hub to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel, the IoT device responsively transmitting the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the electronics equipment/ vertical gardening system.
10) The method as in claim 9, further comprising: communicatively coupling a plurality of additional IoT devices to the IoT hub, each of the IoT devices comprising an IR or RF blaster to control different types of electronics equipment via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, each IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions associated with the operation of the different electronics equipment, each IoT device to transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel.
11) A system comprising:
(a) a hardware Internet of Things (IoT) hub comprising a network interface to couple the IoT hub to an IoT service over a wide area network (WAN);
(b) at least one IoT device communicatively coupled to the IoT hub over a wireless communication channel, the IoT device comprising an infrared (IR) or radio frequency (RF) blaster to control specified vertical gardening system via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, the IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions associated with the operation of the vertical gardening system, the IoT device to transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel;
(c) the IoT hub comprising a remote control code database to store remote control codes usable to control the vertical gardening system, the IoT hub further comprising control logic circuitry to generate remote control commands using the remote control codes, the remote control commands selected by the control logic circuitry in response to the current conditions and input from an end user provided via a user device, the IoT hub to transmit the commands to the IoT device over the wireless communication channel;
(d) the IoT device to responsively transmit the remote control commands to the electronics equipment to control the vertical gardening system; and
(e) a plurality of additional IoT devices communicatively coupled to the IoT hub, each of the IoT devices comprising an IR or RF blaster to control different types of electronics equipment via IR or RF communication with the electronics equipment, each IoT device further comprising at least one sensor to detect current conditions associated with the operation of the different electronics equipment, each IoT device to transmit an indication of the current conditions to the IoT hub over the wireless communication channel.
12) A vertical gardening system, wherein the system improves air quality and air circulation, reduces carbon footprints, mitigates Urban Island Effect, reduces indoor air pollution at home and minimizes the water use for plant growth.