WO2024147818A1

WO2024147818A1 - Planting column assembly for enclosed growing environment

Info

Publication number: WO2024147818A1
Application number: PCT/US2023/060015
Authority: WO
Inventors: Scott Thomas MASSEY; Ivan Lee BALL
Original assignee: Heliponix, Llc
Priority date: 2023-01-03
Filing date: 2023-01-03
Publication date: 2024-07-11

Abstract

A planting column for indoor growing appliances. The planting column may be formed from stacked rings. Individual rings may include receptacles for receiving seed cartridges that contain one or more seeds suspended in one or more layers of substrate. The planting column may also include a base and a top configured to releasably couple to the indoor growing appliance to secure the planting column during use.

Description

PLANTING COLUMN ASSEMBLY FOR ENCLOSED GROWING ENVIRONMENT

BACKGROUND

[0001] Home gardening and usage of micro gardens in the apartment complexes and neighborhoods has grown in recent years throughout the United States in response to food deserts limiting the availability of fresh produce in densely populated areas. More consumers desire to have fresh produce and herbs grown at home to provide fresher produce, as well as to limit the preservatives and chemicals used in large grocery stores. Depending on climate, homeowners may be limited to indoor systems for growing fresh produce and herbs. However, most indoor systems are limited in space and provide unitary growing conditions for all produce and herbs that often results in suboptimal conditions for all produce and herbs being produced by the homeowner. Additionally, homeowners often lack the education and time to properly maintain optimal growth conditions for each individual species and type of plant.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0002] The detailed description is described with reference to the accompanying figures. In the figures, the left-most digit(s) of a reference number identifies the figure in which the reference number first appears. The use of the same reference numbers in different figures indicates similar or identical components or features.

[0003] FIG. 1 is an example pictorial diagram of an enclosed growing environment or appliance in a closed configuration according to some implementations.

[0004] FIG. 2 is an example pictorial diagram of an enclosed growing environment or appliance in an open configuration according to some implementations. [0005] FIG. 3 illustrates an example front view of a planting column associated with the enclosed growing environment according to some implementations.

[0006] FIG. 4 illustrates example pictorial diagrams of a ring or row of a planting column that may be utilized with the enclosed growing environment or as a standalone system according to some implementations.

[0007] FIG. 5 illustrates other example pictorial diagrams of a planting column and seed cartridges that may be utilized with the enclosed growing environment or as a standalone system according to some implementations.

[0008] FIG. 6 illustrates another example pictorial diagram of a planting column having a top, planting slot cover, and base utilized with the enclosed growing environment or as a standalone system according to some implementations.

[0009] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional diagram of a planting column engaged with a watering system of the enclosed growing environment according to some implementations.

[0010] FIG. 8 illustrates an example pictorial diagram of a locking mechanism for securing a planting column to an enclosed growing environment according to some implementations.

[0011] FIG. 9 illustrates an example pictorial diagram of a base of a planting column according to some implementations.

[0012] FIG. 10 illustrates an example pictorial diagram of a cross section of rings of a planting column secured via male and female connectors according to some implementations.

[0013] FIG. 11 illustrates an example pictorial diagram of a planting slot cover associated with a planting column according to some implementations. [0014] FIG. 12 illustrates an example pictorial diagram of a top associated with a planting column according to some implementations.

[0015] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross sectional diagram of a bottom section of a base of a planting column according to some implementations.

[0016] The figures depict various embodiments for purposes of illustration only. One skilled in the art will readily recognize from the following discussion that alternative embodiments of the structures and methods illustrated herein may be employed without departing from the principles described herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0017] Discussed herein are systems and methods associated with automating, optimizing, and customizing at home enclosed growing appliances (such as a micro garden) or plant growing apparatuses for individual users. For example, the systems, discussed herein, may include a planting column that is configured to provide planting receptacles for the cultivation (e.g., fungi, flowers, produce, mushrooms, herbs, and/or the like) of individual plants within an enclosed growing environment for at home and indoor use. The enclosed growing environment may, in some implementations, provide an isolated zone or area about the planting column and any vegetation associated therewith that is configured to provide stable and controlled environmental conditions, physically separated from the conditions within a surrounding environment (e.g., the home or apartment).

[0018] In some examples, the planting column or tower may be configured to receive one or more seed containers via one or more receptacles, receiving slots, or cavities. For example, the planting column may comprise a plurality of receptacles configured to receive individual seed cartridges or pods. The planting receptacles may be arranged both in vertical columns and horizontal rows about the planting column. For instance, in one specific example, the planting column may include twenty columns and five rows of planting receptacles. In some cases, the planting receptacles may be staggered between the columns, such that each column has one planting slot for every other row. In these cases, staggering the planting receptacles allows the system to be able to monitor each individual plant as well as allowing each individual plant sufficient room to grow.

[0019] In some cases, the planting column may be rotatable three-hundred and sixty degrees within the enclosure and about a base, or any other limited rotation. For example, a drive motor of the enclosure may be configured to mechanically, fluidly, or magnetically rotate the planting column within the enclosure based on one or more control signals from a monitoring and control system. In some instances, as the planting column rotates, each individual planting slot may be assigned a unique identifier, such that the system is able to track each seed cartridge and resulting plant based on a determined location within the planting column. The planting column may also be coupled to a fluid reservoir that is configured to provide fluids (such as water, nutrients, and the like) to the seed cartridge on, for example, an individualized basis.

[0020] In some examples, a gasket may be positioned between rings that have connected lid flaps that close over the planting receptacles or ports. The top, side, and even the bottom sides of the lid flaps may have unique identifiers for a vision system to recognize planting locations, as discussed herein. For example, the unique identifiers may have a visible marking or invisible marking (e.g., an infrared spectrum mark) that a vision system of the enclosure may scan and read to determine the identity of the planting receptacle. For example, the vision system may utilize the unique identifiers to at least assist in categorizing, classifying, segmenting, defining an area, region or location associated with specific vegetation or plants based at least in part on image data of the planting column captured by the system. In some cases, unique identifiers for location determination may also be utilized to assist with initialization or location determination upon restart or reboot of the system as well as in response to an upgrade or replacement of illuminators, sensors, control components, and the like being installed, upgraded, and/or calibrated. In some cases, the system may utilize the unique identifiers to determine environmental settings for the vegetation or plants within each individual receptacle (e.g., lighting characteristics, nutrient values, and the like). For example, the enclosure may control or adjust growth conditions, settings, and/or parameters customizable for each plant in various different life stages. These identifiers, or the gasket itself may be thermally responsive, changing colors in response to temperature changes for computer vision and user recognition alike.

[0021] In some examples, the planting column may be formed by a set of stackable rings, such that the height and number of planting receptacles may be configurable by the user. In some cases, the planting column formed by the set of stackable rings may include one or more rings (such as between one and ten rings) that are configured to mate one atop the next in a manner to provide alternating receptacles for receiving the seed cartridges. In some cases, each ring may be configured to be identical to the others and include a male connector (e.g., protrusions) and a female connector (e.g., openings) that are offset from each other such that when the rings are engaged with each other the planting receptacles are offset from the row or ring directly above and directly below (e.g., the rings are staggered with respect to each other). In this manner, the planting column formed from the set of rings may provide sufficient space for each plant to grow to maturity.

[0022] In some cases, the rings may be formed from polymers or plastics, such as, for example, premium sulfone polymer (PPSU), Sulfone polymer with high-heat transparency and chemical resistance (PESU), aromatic polyamide (PPA), aromatic polyamide (PARA), aromatic polyamide (HPPA), polyphenylene sulfide (PPS), aromatic polyketone or Polyetheretherketone (PEEK), melt-processable fluoropolymer (PVDF), Acrylic (PMMA), Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene (ABS), polyethylene (PE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), High Impact Polystyrene Sheet (HIPS), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Low density polyethylene (LDPE), Thermoplastic Polyurethanes (TPU), Thermoplastic elastomers (TPE), Polypropylene (PP), Polystyrene (PS), or the like and may also include copper, silver, zinc pyrithione, thiabendazole, or other based antimicrobial additives and/or ultraviolet (UV) stabilizers. In some cases, the rings may be lightweight (e.g., less than a weight threshold, such as 0.25 pounds, 1 pound, 2 pounds, or the like) so that the rings can easily be moved with or without associated plants. It could even be formed by pressing or fusing sheet metal such as stainless steel, aluminum, or other food grade alloys. For example, the rings may be de-stacked and moved (such as over a sink during watering). In some cases, the ring may have a diameter of between approximately six inches and nine inches

[0023] The planting column may also include a base configured below the rings and a top or cover configured above the rings. The base may be configured to mate with the fluid receptacle and include a drain or fluid control mechanism to cause excess fluid to discharge from the planting column into the fluid reservoir or other location, such as overflow, spill, or waste container. The top may be configured to releasably couple to a locking mechanism of a water delivery system to ensure the planting column remains upright during use. The top and/or each ring may also include one or more fluid distribution channels or mechanism to distribute the fluids delivered to the planting column to the vegetation and plants within the planting receptacles. [0024] In some examples, the seed cartridge may be specifically designed to mate and/or otherwise be received within a cavity defined by the receptacles of the planting column. The seed cartridges may be a self-contained apparatus having an exterior structure of one or more surfaces or walls that contain one or more seeds suspended in one or more layers of substrate or growing medium.

[0025] FIGS. 1 and 2 illustrate example views of an enclosed growing environment 100 for providing a controlled growing environment about a planting column 204 according to some implementations. The enclosed growing environment 100 may be configured as a plant growing apparatus or appliance that provides a climate-controlled interior or zone that houses the planting column 204. However, unlike conventional home garden systems that provide uniform lighting and temperature, the enclosed growing environment 100 may provide active monitoring and adaptive environmental conditions based on the health, stage of growth, type or species of plants, and the like via one or more systems either internal to the enclosed growing environment 100, co-located within a physical environment, such as the home, or a remote cloud-based system.

[0026] In the current example, the enclosed growing environment 100 may be sized and shaped to fit in a standard residential kitchen or the like area. Further still, the growing apparatus 100 may be sized and shaped to fit in industrial commercial applications such as warehouses and restaurants, among others. For example, in one non-exclusive embodiment the enclosed growing environment 100 is sized to fit into a standard base cabinet opening wherein the enclosed growing environment 100 can be positioned under a countertop. Most homes are fitted with kitchen countertops that measure 25.5 inches in width (from the wall to the edge of the counter), with some measuring up to 28 inches. Standard measurements allow for a 1.5-inch overhang over 24-inch deep base cabinets. Therefore, ‘under-the-counter’ appliances are typically bound within the dimensions of 24" wide X 35" high x 24" deep. Further still other configurations considered herein may be sized and shaped like a standard refrigerator or the like, wherein the enclosed growing environment 100 may occupy a similar space as a standard sized refrigerator. Further still, the teachings of this disclosure can be implemented in larger structures like buildings. In this embodiment, the enclosed growing environment 100 may be an entire building, wall(s) of a building, or the interior 202 may be the inside of the building. In yet another example, a shipping container could be repurposed with a plant housing positioned therein to make a modular hydroponic farm that can be easily transported. Further, while a rectangular enclosed growing environment 100 is illustrated, this disclosure is not limited to such a configuration. Rather, any three-dimensional geometric shape may be used to separate the interior 202 from a surrounding environment, generally indicated by 116. More specifically, the enclosed growing environment 100 may have a cylindrical, hexagonal, octagonal, triangular, or the like cross-section and this disclosure considers any shape of the enclosed growing environment 100. Accordingly, this disclosure considers implementing many different dimensions for the enclosed growing environment 100.

[0027] In some cases, enclosure 100 may include a door 118 and a drawer 120. The door 118 may be rotationally coupled to the remaining components of the enclosed growing environment 100. Accordingly, the door 118 may rotate between a closed position as illustrated in FIG. 1 and an opened position. In the closed position, the door 118 and remaining panels 102 may substantially isolate the interior 202 from the surrounding environment 116. Alternatively, in the opened position, the door (or doors, such as in a French door style system) 118 may allow a user to access the interior region 202 from the surrounding environment 116. The door 118 hinge could be mechanically configured for either a right hand or left hand door swing.

[0028] In one non-exclusive example, one or more of the interior surfaces or any may have a reflective material at least partially along the interior surface. Further, one or more LEDs or other light source(s) may be embedded in or on the panel or panels that can selectively provide supplemental lighting. In this embodiment, the surfaces may use a semi, or highly reflective mirror surface to recycle light back to the interior 202 to promote plant growth. Further, the LEDs may selectively adjust an angle of illumination, intensity, position, temperature, and/or spectra based on a rotational position of the plant housing assembly 204. In this embodiment, the LEDs may also be evenly spaced to act as a passive heat sink to facilitate cooling the LEDs during use.

[0029] LEDs may also be positioned in the comer(s) of the interior 202 or along one or more lighting columns 210 and one or more of the LEDs discussed herein may be selectively controlled to simulate rotation of the planting tower 204 through oscillating brightness of the LEDs. Oscillating the LEDs may promote accelerated growth rates among other things. In another embodiment, the LEDs may be flat panels mounted onto the walls, ceilings, and/or the floor for homogenous lighting from all sides.

[0030] In some implementations, the lighting and control columns 210 may be configured within the enclosed growing environment 100 or along a specific region of the enclosed growing environment 100. The lighting and control columns 210 may be equipped with various sensors for monitoring the individual plants in addition to the one or more illuminators. For example, the lighting and control column 210 may be equipped with one or more sensors, such as image devices (e.g., red-green-blue image devices, infrared image devices, monochrome image devices, lidar devices, and the like), humidity sensors, temperature sensors, air pressure sensors, air quality/particulate sensors, gas sensors, carbon dioxide (CO2) sensors, spectral sensors, and the like to generate sensor data 118 associated with the interior of the enclosed growing environment 100.

[0031] The lighting and control column 210 may also be equipped with one or more illuminators (such as visible lights, infrared illuminators, ultraviolet lights, and the like). The illuminators may be adjustable to provide specific spectrums, amounts of light, and intensities of light to each individual planting receptacle based on the corresponding plant’s health, life stage, size, and type or species. In some cases, the lighting and control column 210 may also include multiple rows or columns of sensors and/or illuminators. For example, the lighting and control column 210 may include a row or column of sensors and/or illuminators for each corresponding row or column of plants [0032] In yet another aspect of this disclosure, any portion of the panels directed towards the interior region 202 may have a reflective material to ensure any plants positioned in the planting column 204 intake the majority of the photons of light emitted. This configuration may maximize the photosynthetic potential of the energy provided by the growth lights. More specifically, the surfaces of the panels facing the interior region may have a high-gloss white or reflective material thereon. The white or reflective material could reflect and/or refract any light that does not land on the leaves of plants in the planting column 204 back to the plants to prevent wasted light energy.

[0033] In yet another aspect of this disclosure, the interior 202 may be substantially sealed from the surrounding environment to allow the humidity, temperature, and/or pressure of the interior 202 to be selectively controlled. Low humidity environments may hinder plant growth by drying out the stomata which are required to be open for the gaseous exchanges needed in photosynthesis. Accordingly, one aspect of this disclosure utilizes a sealed, positively pressurized interior 202 to provide the dual benefit of preventing the entry of pests into the interior 202 and maintaining the optimal humidity for photosynthesis. In other words, the humidity and/or pressure of the interior 202 may be selectively controlled to ensure optimal plant growing conditions therein. Further still, carbon dioxide levels of the interior may be monitored and modified to provide improved growing conditions. The system may close or limit the outlet air ducts to force air flow through the tower, and out through the drain gasket at the bottom of the tower. Air flow of the root structures of plants has shown to absorb and metabolize harmful VOCs (volatile organic compounds) from the air such as toluene and formaldehyde originating from gasoline and cleaning chemicals respectively.

[0034] In some implementations, the planting column 204 within the enclosed growing environment 100 may comprise a plurality of receptacles, generally indicated by 206, configured to receive individual seed cartridges and, accordingly, the cultivation of corresponding plants. The planting receptacles 206 may be arranged both in vertical columns and horizontal rows about the planting column 204. For instance, in one specific example, the planting column 204 may include twenty columns and five rows of planting receptacles. In some cases, the planting receptacles 206 may be staggered between the columns, such that each column has one planting receptacle for every other row. In these cases, staggering the planting receptacles 206 allows the enclosed growing environment 100 to provide each individual plant sufficient room to grow.

[0035] In some cases, the planting column 204 may be rotatable three-hundred and sixty degrees within the enclosed growing environment 100 and about a base 208, or any other limited rotation. For example, a drive motor (not shown) may be configured to mechanically or magnetically rotate the planting column 206 within the enclosed growing environment 100 based on one or more control signals or setting data, such as, in some examples, from a cloud-based system or, in other examples, via internal control system. In some instances, as the planting column 204 rotates, each individual planting receptacle 206 may be assigned a unique identifier, such that the enclosed growing environment 100 is able to track, via the sensors and/or illuminators of the lighting and control columns 210, each plant based on a determined location within the planting column 204 (e.g., an individual planting receptacle 206).

[0036] In some cases, the planting column 204 may be formed by a set of stackable rings posited between a base member and a top member. In these cases, each ring may be one row of the planting column 204 and may include a plurality of receptacles 206 for receiving the seed cartridges, as discussed herein. The planting rings may be configured to mate and stack on top of a prior ring such that the planting receptacles are offset or staggered as the column is constructed. For example, the ring may include openings along the bottom portion of the ring as well as grooves that extend inward from the ring, such that the grooves of a lower ring mate with the openings of the upper ring. Motivated by biomimicry design strategy, female end in the top, male in the bottom ensures water is always returning towards the central axis. The grooves and openings are defined such that the staggered arrangement is maintained as the planting column is constructed.

[0037] FIG. 3 illustrates an example front view of a planting column 204 associated with the enclosed growing environment 100 according to some implementations. In the illustrated example, the planting column 204 may comprise a plurality of receptacles 206 configured to receive seed cartridges for the cultivation of individual plants, generally indicated by 302. The planting receptacles 206 may be arranged both in vertical columns and horizontal rows (such as rings) about the planting column 204. For instance, in one specific example, the planting column 204 may include twenty columns and five rows (or rings) of planting receptacles 206. In some cases, the planting receptacle(s) 206 may be staggered between the columns, such that each column has one planting receptacle 206 for every other row (or ring). In these cases, staggering the planting receptacles 206 allows the enclosed growing environment 100 to be able to monitor each individual plants 302 as well as allowing each individual plant 302 sufficient and/or greater room to grow.

[0038] In some cases, the planting column 204 may be rotatable three-hundred and sixty degrees within the enclosure and about a base, or any other limited rotation. In some instances, as the planting column 204 rotates, each individual planting receptacle 206 may be assigned a unique identifier, such that a control system may track each plant 302 based on a determined location within the planting column 204 via sensor and/or image data captured by the sensors, discussed above. In these instances, the system may determine the assigned location of a plant upon insertion or planting within a specific planting receptacle 206. For example, a planting receptacle 206 may have a visible marking or invisible marking (e.g., an infrared spectrum mark) that the control system may read upon insertion of a seed cartridge. In other cases, the control system may determine that a receptacle 206 has been filled as the planting column 204 rotates. In some cases, markings for location determination may also be placed at various positions about the interior surfaces of the enclosed growing environment and/or the top and bottom of the planting column 204 to assist with initialization or location determination upon restart or reboot of the system as well as in response to an upgrade or replacement lighting and control column being installed or calibrated.

[0039] FIG. 4 illustrates an example pictorial diagram 400 of a ring or row 402 of a planting column 204 that may be utilized with the enclosed growing environment 100 or as a standalone system according to some implementations. For example, the ring 402 may form one row of the planting column 204 of the enclosed growing environment 100 illustrated with respect to FIGS. 2 and 3, or a standalone, countertop, or tabletop planting column discussed below. For instance, the planting column 204 may be formed by stacking identical rings 402 one atop the next. In this manner, a user may form a planting column having a desired number of rows and, accordingly, planting receptacles. In some cases, the planting column 204 may also include a base and a top member (not shown) as well as gaskets (not shown) between the rings.

[0040] In the current example, the ring 402 includes male connector, generally indicated by 404, and a female connector, generally indicated by 406. In some cases, the male connectors 404 and the female connectors 406 may be offset from each other such that when the rings 402 are engaged with each other the planting receptacles are offset or have alternating positions from one row or ring to the next. In this manner, the planting column formed from the set of rings 402 may provide sufficient space for each plant to grow to maturity.

[0041] The ring 402 may also include receptacles, generally indicated by 408, for receiving and maintaining the seed cartridges. In some cases, each ring 402 may include between eight and twelve receptacles. In other examples, the ring 402 may include between four and fifteen receptacles. As illustrated, the ring 402 includes ten receptacles. The ring 402 may also include between two and eight male connectors 404 and female connectors 406. In other examples, the ring 402 may include between three and seven male connectors 404 and female connectors 406. As illustrated, the ring 402 includes five male connectors 404 and female connectors 406.

[0042] In the current example, the ring 402 also includes a bottom portion 410 and a top portion 412. The bottom portion 410 is hidden or obstructed from view by the next lower or subsequent ring 402 when the rings 402 are stacked atop each other and the top portion 412 is visible and accessible to a user when the planting column 204 is assembled and in use within the enclosure 100.

[0043] In one specific example, a planting column, such as planting column 204, may comprise a plurality of horizontal rows or rings 204 stacked atop each other. In this example, each ring 204 may have seeds or cartridges embedded into the ring material for growing microgreens or other types of plants along the surface of each ring 204. These rings 204 can be removable to easily harvest the entire horizontal row of plants from the planting column as a single unit. For example, each row or ring 402 may include grow material and seeds either as the ring 204 is formed from grow material and includes embedded seeds or the ring 204 is coupled to cartridges or disks that include grow material and seeds. In some cases, the form of the ring 204 may vary to customize and improve the growing surface area for specific characteristics of each plant associated therewith. As one example implementation, the multi plant ring 204 could take the form of a semicircle with half of the receptacles 408 configured with material to absorb water and the ring 204 could, thereby, grow plants with a larger surface area when larger plants are embedded. Likewise, a ring 204 could take the form of a semicircle with additional (such as double) receptacles and the ring 204 could, thereby, grow additional plants with a smaller surface area when growing smaller plants.

[0044] In one example, the male connectors 404 are designed to fit within an approximately six-inch PVC opening of the female connectors 406. In some cases, the outside diameter of the rings 402 may be less than or equal to approximately nine inches. The height of the rings 402 may be between approximately three and six inches. [0045] FIG. 5 illustrates other example pictorial diagrams 500 of a planting column 204 formed from a plurality of rings 502, discussed above with respect to FIG. 4. The current example illustrates the planting column 204 without a top or base member coupled to the plurality of rings 502. For example, the planting column 204 may be formed from a plurality of rings 502 stacked one atop the next via male and female connectors, as discussed herein.

[0046] In the current example, the rings 402 of the planting column 204 have engaged seed cartridges 504 that may ultimately grow produce for consumption by a user. In some cases, the planting column 204 may be utilized with the enclosed growing environment 100 or as a standalone system according to some implementations. In some cases, the planting column 204 may be configured to engage with a rotational plate or base of the enclosed growing environment 100 of FIGS. 1-3. In other cases, the planting column 204 may be configured to be placed, with or without a base (not shown), on a counter, tabletop, or the like. As one example, the planting column 204 may be between approximately 20 and 28 inches wide, 18 and 26 inches deep, and 13 and 21 inches tall.

[0047] In the current example, seven rings 402 are utilized to form the planting column 204. However, it should be understood that any number of rings 402 may be used to form columns 204 of different heights. For example, the enclosure 100 may be an under the counter (e.g., counter height) appliance, a full height appliance, countertop appliance, or the like. In each case, the user may utilize a corresponding number of rings 402 to form the planting column 204. Likewise, in some cases, the user may desire to grow fewer plants and accordingly, reduce the number of rings 402 to, for instance, reduce the amount of water and/or nutrients utilized by the system (e.g., the system may be configured based on the number of planting receptacles of the current planting column 204).

[0048] FIG. 6 illustrates another example pictorial diagram 600 of a planting column 204 having a top 604, planting slot covers 606, and a base 608 utilized with the enclosed growing environment 100 or as standalone system according to some implementations. In the current example, the top 604, discussed below in more detail with respect to FIG. 12, may include a lower section having female connectors to lock or engage with the male connectors of a top ring 610 of the planting column 204. In some cases, the top 606 may include an opening 612 to engage with a watering system of the enclosed growing environment 100. In some cases, the top 604 may have a top surface that slopes downward from a position adjacent to the opening 612 to a side wall having the female connectors.

[0049] The planting column 204 may also include one or more planting slot covers 606, such as a cover associated with a gasket configured between adjacent rings 616 of the planting column 204. The planting slot covers 606, discussed in more below with respect to FIG. 11, may engage with each receptacle of a ring 616 of the planting column 204 to cover and, thereby, prevent dirt, debris, and other contaminants from entering the receptacles and/or the interior of the planting column 204. In some cases, the planting slot covers 606 may be formed from a flexible material, such as a polymer, rubber, silicone, or the like. In these examples, the planting slot covers 606 may be configured to absorb shock, vibrations, and/or impacts to the planting column 204 on behalf of the rings 616 to thereby reduce risk of damage to the rings 616, the top 604, or the base 608.

[0050] The planting column 204 may also include a base 608. The base 608, discussed in more below with respect to FIG. 9, may include an upper section 614 having male connectors to lock or engage with the female connectors of a bottom ring 616 of the planting column 204. The upper section 614 may also include a row of receptacles and substantially match or mirror the configuration of a ring, such as rings 610 or 616. The base 608 may also include a bottom section 618 that may include one or more gears for engaging with a rotatable platform of the enclosed growing environment 100, such that while engaged the planting column 204 rotates with the rotatable platform. The bottom section 618 may also include a drain mechanism (not shown) that may allow water to exit the planting column 204 in a controlled manner.

[0051] FIG. 7 illustrates a cross sectional diagram 700 of a planting column 204 engaged with a watering system 702 of the enclosed growing environment, such as the enclosed growth environment 100, according to some implementations. In the current example, a distribution hose, pipe, portion, or the like of the watering system 702 may extend downward into the interior of the planting column 204 via the opening in the top 604 of the planting column 204. A locking mechanism 704 of the enclosed growth environment 100 may engage with the planting column 204, such as via the top 604, to hold the planting column 204 in place and, thereby, in line with the watering system 702. The bottom section 618 of the base 608 may also include a drain mechanism 706 to distribute water in a controlled manner, as the water exits the planting column 204. In the current example, the drain mechanism 706 includes a domed or pyramidal shaped drain for directing the water into, for instance, a collection basin. Accordingly, water may enter the planting column 204 at the top via the watering system 702 and exit the planting column 602 at the bottom via the drain mechanism 706.

[0052] FIG. 8 illustrates an example pictorial 800 diagrams of the locking mechanism 704 for securing a planting column 204 to an enclosed growing environment, such as the enclosed growth environment 100, according to some implementations. In the current example, the locking mechanism 704 includes a movable member 802 which is illustrated in an open position, in example 804, and in a closed position, in example 806. As illustrated, the movable member 802 may transition between the open position 804 during assembly and the closed positioned 806 during operation. For instance, the user may insert or stack a base coupled to a rotatable platform of the enclosed growth environment, a desired number of rings, and a top 604 to construct or otherwise form the planting column 204. The water system may then be coupled to the planting column 204 via the connector 808. The movable member 802 may then be transitioned or otherwise moved downward to engage the planting column 204 and, thereby, secure the planting column 204 during use.

[0053] FIG. 9 illustrates an example pictorial diagram 900 of a base 608 of a planting column 204 according to some implementations. In the illustrated example, the base 608 includes an upper portion 614 and a bottom section 618. The upper section 614 may include one or more male connectors 902 to lock or engage with the female connectors of a bottom ring of the planting column 204. The upper section 614 may also include a row of receptacles 904 and substantially match or mirror the configuration of a ring. In this manner, the base 608 may form a single layer or row planting column 204 even without the addition of supplementary rings stacked atop the base 608. As illustrated, the base 608 may also include a bottom section 618. The bottom section 618 may include one or more gears for engaging with a rotatable platform of the enclosed growing environment 100, such that while engaged the planting column 204 rotates with the rotatable platform. In one example, the base 608 may sit on the platform of the enclosed growing environment 100 and remain in place due to a low friction nylon bushing on either the base 606 and/or the platform. [0054] FIG. 10 illustrates an example pictorial diagram 1000 of a cross section of rings of a planting column 204 secured via male connectors 1002 and female connectors 1004 according to some implementations. As shown, the female connectors 1004 may receive or engage over the male connectors 1002 of the lower adjacent ring. In this manner, the upper adjacent ring may be supported via the coupling of the male connector 1002 of the lower adjacent ring with the female connector 1004 of the upper adjacent ring.

[0055] FIG. 11 illustrates an example pictorial diagram 1100 of a planting slot cover 606 associated with a planting column 204 according to some implementations. For example, with a ring of the planting column 204 is not in use (e.g., no seed cartridges are inserted into the receptacles of the ring), the planting slot cover 606 may be positioned around the planting column and ring to cover or otherwise prevent dirt, debris or other material from entering the interior of the planting column and, thereby for instance, contaminating the water system.

[0056] In the current example, the planting slot cover 606 may include a plurality of bendable or moveable covers 1102. In this example, each of the covers 1102 may be movable or liftable, such that the covers 1102 may transition between a closed position (illustrated with respect to example 1100 and 600 herein) and an open position (not shown). For instance, the covers 1102 may hinge along the area generally indicated by line 1104. In this manner, the cover 606 may be positioned, such as during assembly, between adjacent rings of the planting column 204 and configured in the closed position when the corresponding plant receptacle is not in use and transited to the opened position when the corresponding plant receptacle has an inserted seed cartridge. In some cases, the covers 606 may include a third position between the open and closed positions to allow for a partial opening during some stages of plant growth or lifecycle. [0057] In the current example, the cover 606 also includes female connectors 1106 that may engage the male connectors of the adjacent lower ring in a manner similar to the next adjacent higher ring. Accordingly, the cover 606 may utilize the same coupling mechanism as the ring without requiring additional connectors, thereby reducing complexity as well as assembly and manufacturing costs.

[0058] In some examples, the cover 606 may be formed from flexible materials includes, but are not limited to: silicone, silicone-rubber, rubber (Ethyl ene-Propylene (EPDM, EP), Chloroprene, Neoprene® (CR), Nitrile, Buna-N (NBR), Silicone (VMQ), Viton®, Fluorocarbon (FKM), Natural Rubber (NR), Styrene-Butadiene (SBR), Polyurethane (AU, EU), Fluorosilicone (FVMQ, FMQ), Butyl (HR), Hypalon® (CSM), Hydrogenated Nitrile (HNBR), Polyacrylate Acrylic (ACM), Ethylene Acrylic Elastomer, Vamac® (AEM), Epichlorohydrin (ECO)),open/closed cell sponge rubber, compressed non-asbestos (e.g., fiberglass or aramid fibers), cork, fiber (cellulose fiber, insulating fiber, vegetable fiber, and synthetic fiber), felt, flexible graphite, foam (Closed Cell EVA foam, Neoprene Foam, Polyurethane Foam Microcellular Urethane Foam, Poron® Foam, Polyethylene Foam, Cross-linked Polyethylene Foam, Polystyrene Foam Volara® Foam, Polyester Foam, Polyether Foam, Silicone Foam, Ensolite® Foam, Multi-Planar EMI Foam, Filter Foam Sound Foam, PVC Foam, Vinyl Foam, Convoluted Foam), custom plastics (ABS, Acetal (Delrin®), Acetate, Mylar® Polyester Film, PTFE, Nylon, Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), High Impact Polystyrene, Kapton® Polymide Film, Polycarbonate, (Lexan®), Plastic Shim Stock (Color Coded), PolypropylenePeek, PETG, PVC, Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene (UHMW), Vinyl (Rigid & Flexible)), EDPM, carbon/rubber blend, cork/rubber blend, Leather, wax, rubber-like polyurethane, a combination thereof, or the like.

[0059] FIG. 12 illustrates an example pictorial diagram 1200 of a top 604 associated with a planting column according to some implementations. As discussed above, the top 604 may be positioned over the top ring of the planting column and include an opening 612 for receiving a water system of an enclosed growth environment. In the current example, the top 604 may include a lower section 1202 having female connectors 1004 to lock or engage with the male connectors of a top ring of the planting column. In some cases, the top 604 may have a top surface that slopes downward from a position adjacent to the opening 612 to a side wall having the female connectors 1004. [0060] FIG. 13 illustrates a cross sectional diagram 1300 of a bottom section 618 of a base 608 of a planting column 204 according to some implementations. The bottom section 618 of the base 608 may also include a drain mechanism 1302 to distribute water in a controlled manner, as the water exits the planting column. In the current example, the drain mechanism 1302 includes a domed or pyramidal shaped drain for directing the water into, for instance, a collection basin.

[0061] Although the subject matter has been described in language specific to structural features, it is to be understood that the subject matter defined in the appended claims is not necessarily limited to the specific features described. Rather, the specific features are disclosed as illustrative forms of implementing the claims.

EXAMPLE CLAUSES

[0062] A. A planting column comprising: a first cylindrical ring having a first plurality of planting receptacles, individual ones of the first plurality of planting receptacles configured to receive a first seed cartridge; a second cylindrical ring having a second plurality of planting receptacles and positioned adjacent to and atop the first cylindrical ring, individual ones of the second plurality of planting receptacles configured to receive a second seed cartridge; and a planting cover configured between the first cylindrical ring and the second cylindrical ring, the planting cover including a first plurality of lids positioned over the individual ones of the first plurality of planting receptacles, individual lids having an open position and a closed position.

[0063] B. The planting column of claim A, further comprising: a cylindrical base member position below the first cylindrical ring, the cylindrical base member including a third plurality of plurality of planting receptacles and configured to releasably couple to a rotating platform of an enclosed growing environment, the enclosed growing environment defining an area isolated from an exterior environment.

[0064] C. The planting column of claim B, wherein cylindrical base member includes a top section associated with the third plurality of planting receptacles and a bottom section configured to releasably couple to the rotational platform.

[0065] D. The planting column of claim C, wherein the bottom section includes a drain mechanism to channel fluids from the planting column into a reservoir associated with the enclosed growing environment.

[0066] E. The planting column of claim C, wherein the bottom section has a diameter that is less than a diameter of the top section.

[0067] F. The planting column of claim A, further comprising: a top member positioned over the second cylindrical ring, the top member configured to releasably couple to a watering system of an enclosed growing environment, the enclosed growing environment defining an area isolated from an exterior environment.

[0068] G. The planting column of claim F, wherein the top member includes an opening at a center position for receiving a hose associated with the watering system. [0069] H. The planting column of claim A, wherein the second cylindrical ring includes a plurality of female connectors configured to mate with a plurality of male connectors of the first cylindrical ring.

[0070] I. The planting column of claim H, wherein the planting cover includes a second plurality of female connectors configured to mate with the plurality of male connectors of the first cylindrical ring.

[0071] J. The planting column of claim A, further comprising: a third cylindrical ring having a third plurality of planting receptacles and positioned adjacent to and atop the second cylindrical ring, individual ones of the third plurality of planting receptacles configured to receive a third seed cartridge; and a second planting cover configured between the second cylindrical ring and the third cylindrical ring, the second planting cover including a second plurality of lids positioned over the individual ones of the second plurality of planting receptacles, individual lids of the second plurality of lids having an open position and a closed position

[0072] K. An enclosed growing environment comprising: an exterior to define an interior area that is environmentally isolated from at least one exterior environmental condition; a planting column including: a first ring having a first receptacle to receive a first seed cartridge; a second ring having a second planting receptacle to receive a second seed cartridge, the second ring releasably coupled over the first ring; a base member releasably coupled below the first ring, the base member including a third planting receptacle to receive a third seed cartridge; and a top member releasably coupled above the second ring; a platform to releasably couple to the base member configured to releasably couple to an enclosed growing environment; and a watering system to releasably couple to the top member. [0073] L. The enclosed growing environment of claim K, wherein the platform is configured to rotate the planting column within the interior area.

[0074] M. The enclosed growing environment of claim K, wherein the planting column further comprises a planting cover releasably coupled between the first ring and the second ring, the planting cover including a first lid positioned over the first planting receptacle and the first lid having an open position to allow access to the first planting receptacle and a closed position to prevent access to the first planting receptacle.

[0075] N. The enclosed growing environment of claim K, wherein the first receptacle includes at least one identifier detectable by a vision system of the enclosed growing environment.

[0076] O. The enclosed growing environment of claim K, wherein the planting column further comprises a planting cover releasably coupled between the second ring and the top member, the planting cover including a first lid positioned over the second planting receptacle and the first lid having an open position to allow access to the second planting receptacle and a closed position to prevent access to the second planting receptacle.

[0077] P. A planting column comprising: a first ring having a first receptacle to receive a first seed cartridge; a second ring having a second planting receptacle to receive a second seed cartridge, the second ring positioned atop the first ring; a base member position below the first ring, the base member including a third planting receptacle to receive a third seed cartridge, the base member configured to releasably couple to an enclosed growing environment; and a top member positioned above the second ring and configured to releasably couple to the enclosed growing environment. [0078] Q. The planting column of claim P, further comprising: a planting cover configured between the first ring and the second ring, the planting cover including a first lid positioned over the first planting receptacle and the first lid having an open position to allow access to the first planting receptacle and a closed position to prevent access to the first planting receptacle.

[0079] R. The planting column of claim Q, wherein the planting cover is formed from at least one of a polymer, rubber, or silicone.

[0080] S. The planting column of claim P, wherein the base member includes a drain to direct excess fluid from the planting column.

[0081] T. The planting column of claim P, further comprising a third ring having a fourth planting receptacle to receive a fourth seed cartridge, the third ring positioned between the second ring and the top member.

[0082] While the example clauses described above are described with respect to one particular implementation, it should be understood that, in the context of this document, the content of the example clauses can also be implemented via a method, device, system, a computer-readable medium, and/or another implementation. Additionally, any of examples A-T may be implemented alone or in combination with any other one or more of the examples A-T.

Claims

CLAIMS What is claimed is:

1. A planting column comprising: a first cylindrical ring having a first plurality of planting receptacles, individual ones of the first plurality of planting receptacles configured to receive a first seed cartridge; a second cylindrical ring having a second plurality of planting receptacles and positioned adjacent to and atop the first cylindrical ring, individual ones of the second plurality of planting receptacles configured to receive a second seed cartridge; and a planting cover configured between the first cylindrical ring and the second cylindrical ring, the planting cover including a first plurality of lids positioned over the individual ones of the first plurality of planting receptacles, individual lids having an open position and a closed position.

2. The planting column of claim 1, further comprising: a cylindrical base member position below the first cylindrical ring, the cylindrical base member including a third plurality of plurality of planting receptacles and configured to releasably couple to a rotating platform of an enclosed growing environment, the enclosed growing environment defining an area isolated from an exterior environment.

3. The planting column of any of claim 2, wherein cylindrical base member includes a top section associated with the third plurality of plurality of planting receptacles and a bottom section configured to releasably couple to the rotational platform.

4. The planting column of claim 3, wherein the bottom section includes a drain mechanism to channel fluids from the planting column into a reservoir associated with the enclosed growing environment.

5. The planting column of claim 3, wherein the bottom section has a perimeter that is less than a diameter of the top section.

6. The planting column of claim 1, further comprising: a top member positioned over the second cylindrical ring, the top member configured to releasably couple to a watering system of an enclosed growing environment, the enclosed growing environment defining an area isolated from an exterior environment.

7. The planting column of claim 6, wherein the top member includes an opening at a center position for receiving a hose associated with the watering system.

8. The planting column of claim 1, wherein the second cylindrical ring includes a plurality of female connectors configured to mate with a plurality of male connectors of the first cylindrical ring.

9. The planting column of claim 8, wherein the planting cover includes a second plurality of female connectors configured to mate with the plurality of male connectors of the first cylindrical ring.

10. The planting column of claim 1, further comprising: a third cylindrical ring having a third plurality of planting receptacles and positioned adjacent to and atop the second cylindrical ring, individual ones of the third plurality of planting receptacles configured to receive a third seed cartridge; and a second planting cover configured between the second cylindrical ring and the third cylindrical ring, the second planting cover including a second plurality of lids positioned over the individual ones of the second plurality of planting receptacles, individual lids of the second plurality of lids having an open position and a closed position

11. An enclosed growing environment comprising: an exterior to define an interior area that is environmentally isolated from at least one exterior environmental condition; a planting column including: a first ring having a first receptacle to receive a first seed cartridge; a second ring having a second planting receptacle to receive a second seed cartridge, the second ring releasably coupled over the first ring; a base member releasably coupled below the first ring, the base member including a third planting receptacle to receive a third seed cartridge; and a top member releasably coupled above the second ring; a platform to releasably couple to the base member configured to releasably couple to an enclosed growing environment; and a watering system to releasably couple to the top member.

12. The enclosed growing environment of claim 11, wherein the platform is configured to rotate the planting column within the interior area.

13. The enclosed growing environment of claim 11, wherein the planting column further comprises a planting cover releasably coupled between the first ring and the second ring, the planting cover including a first lid positioned over the first planting receptacle and the first lid having an open position to allow access to the first planting receptacle and a closed position to prevent access to the first planting receptacle.

14. The enclosed growing environment of claim 11, wherein the first receptacle includes at least one identifier detectable by a vision system of the enclosed growing environment.

15. The enclosed growing environment of claim 11, wherein the planting column further comprises a planting cover releasably coupled between the second ring and the top member, the planting cover including a first lid positioned over the second planting receptacle and the first lid having an open position to allow access to the second planting receptacle and a closed position to prevent access to the second planting receptacle.

16. A planting column comprising: a first ring having a first receptacle to receive a first seed cartridge; a second ring having a second planting receptacle to receive a second seed cartridge, the second ring positioned atop the first ring; a base member position below the first ring, the base member including a third planting receptacle to receive a third seed cartridge, the base member configured to releasably couple to an enclosed growing environment; and a top member positioned above the second ring and configured to releasably couple to the enclosed growing environment.

17. The system of claim 16, further comprising: a planting cover configured between the first ring and the second ring, the planting cover including a first lid positioned over the first planting receptacle and the first lid having an open position to allow access to the first planting receptacle and a closed position to prevent access to the first planting receptacle.

18. The system of claim 17, wherein the planting cover is formed from at least one of a polymer, rubber, or silicone.

19. The system of claim 16, wherein the base member includes a drain to direct excess fluid from the planting column.

20. The system of claim 16, further comprising a third ring having a fourth planting receptacle to receive a fourth seed cartridge, the third ring positioned between the second ring and the top member.