Patent ID: 6928772
Filing Date: 2005-08-16
Classification: A01G,Y02A

Abstract:
1. Apparatus for use in a greenhouse having an overhead frame structure and a transparent cover for simultaneously growing two generations of seasonal plants to produce crops comprising: a first media carrier bearing a first generation of plants and growing media for providing nutrients to said plants; a second media carrier bearing growing media on which a second generation of plants grow; the second media carrier being located above and substantially parallel to the first media carrier; a regulating mechanism operatively associated with the overhead frame structure and the second media carrier for controlling and varying the vertical distance between the second media carrier and the first media carrier, at least one elongate flexible load supporting member connected at one end to the regulating mechanism and the other end to the second media carrier; and at least two load differential mechanisms supported by the overhead frame structure; said load differential mechanisms including a drum portion defining a generally cylindrical surface, and a portion of the flexible load supporting member intermediate said ends encircling and engaging the surface of the generally cylindrical drum whereby the regulating mechanism reacts a force in the elongate flexible member that is less than the load applied at the other end of the elongated flexible member by the second media carrier, said load differential mechanisms being responsive to the force at the first end of the load supporting members applied by the regulating mechanism to maintain or selectively lower the second media carrier with respect to the overhead frame structure and the first media carrier thereby allowing variance of the vertical position of the second media carrier with respect to the first media carrier thereby compensating for reduced growth and production of crops by the first generation of plants and facilitating growth and increased production of crops by the second generation of plants.