Systems and methods of improved plant cultivation and elongate airflow assembly for the same

An elongate air delivery assembly having a housing extending between two end caps. The housing includes a plurality of exit vents from which airflow is provided in a consistent sheet at a uniform velocity, and the housing is rotatable about a central longitudinal axis to change a direction of the airflow. A method of improving plant cultivation includes positioning one or more elongate air delivery systems adjacent rows of plants such that the sheet of air generated by the elongate air delivery system is directed horizontally across the plants underneath their plant canopy.

Not applicable.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to improvements in plant cultivation. More particularly, this invention relates to systems and methods, as well as an elongate airflow assembly, for optimizing and/or improving growing conditions of an environment in which plants are grown. The systems and methods may utilize the elongate airflow assembly, which may be configured to provide controllable and/or selectable air flow (e.g., adjustable direction and/or air velocity) to one or more plants. In one embodiment the elongate airflow assembly provides a consistent sheet of air at a uniform velocity. Moreover, the elongate airflow assembly may be further configured for ease of use and/or compatibility with different growing environments (e.g., detachably mountable and/or repositionable on multiple types of grow racks, accessibility for cleaning, repair, and/or part replacement, low voltage power supply, and the like). As such, the elongate airflow assembly is suitable for regulating air circulation of an indoor grow environment in a localized manner that optimizes growing conditions and is also adaptable for improving plant cultivation in a variety of different grow environments, such as those that include multiple types of grow racks and/or spatial constraints.

Systems, methods, and devices for altering growing conditions of an environment in which plants are grown are well known in the art. In particular, the prior art discusses devices that relate to air circulation in indoor grow environments (e.g., greenhouse, indoor grow rooms, and the like) such as HVAC systems (e.g., raised floor systems, overhead duct systems, central air systems, and the like) and/or fans (e.g., floor standing, ceiling, and the like). These HVAC systems and industrial fans provide high volumes of air flow, but do not do so at a consistent velocity. For example, industrial fans provide air flow in a cylindrical pattern. The air flow in the middle is not the same velocity as the air flow around the edges of the cylindrical pattern. As a result, some plants get too much air (e.g., over 250 ft/min velocity), which creates wind burn, and some plants do not get enough air, which can result in high humidity micro-climates that can lead to mold, mildew, and rot. Further, these prior art devices generally distribute air from a source at a fixed location (e.g., exit vents of air ducts, exit vents overtop rotating fan blades, and the like) and then flows through large spaces of an indoor grow environment. Because plants and/or grow racks are at different locations in the spaces of an indoor grow environment through which air flows, air distributed from a same source flows to the plants at different locations in differing manners (e.g., volume, velocity, direction, and the like), and for at least some of the plants, the flow of air may be indirect and/or disrupted. Consequently, the air flow to plants located in the same or different spaces of the indoor grow environment is non-uniform, inconsistent, and/or unpredictable. As such, the HVAC systems and fans discussed by the prior art are not capable of providing controllable and/or selectable air flow and thus are not suitable for regulating air circulation in a localized manner to optimize growing conditions for one or more plants being grow in indoor environments.

Additionally, the HVAC systems and fans discussed by the prior art may be unsuitable for a variety of different grow environments for other reasons, namely they are typically difficult to clean, are difficult to move, and/or require high voltage power. For instance, when one or more plants of a grow environment are contaminated, these HVAC systems and fans may be problematic and if improperly maintained and/or cleaned, could contribute to a spreading of contamination and/or recontamination. Moreover, the prior art HVAC systems distribute air flow from exit vents that have fixed locations in walls, floors, and/or ceilings of a room and thus relocating the exit vents and/or adding additional exit vents so that air flow is distributed from a different location generally requires substantial undertakings and/or costs. Some of the prior art fans (e.g., ceiling fans) have fixed locations and thus are deficient in this same way. While the other prior art fans (e.g., floor-standing fans) may be moved from one location to another, a size of these fans and/or spatial constrains of a grow environment (e.g., minimal distance separating one or more grow racks) may prohibit the fans from being moved to more desirable locations. Notwithstanding, even if these prior art fans were moveable to such locations, they would likely still be unsuitable for a variety of different grow environments since the volume and air velocity of the air flow widely inconsistent across the air flow regardless of their location. Further, due to their high voltage requirements, the prior art HVAC systems and fans may be unsafe when operated around water and/or in damp or wet environments, like, for example, while watering plants. Accordingly, the HVAC systems and fans discussed by the prior art are not easily useable and compatible and thus are not adaptable for improving plant cultivation in a variety of different growing environments.

Furthermore, although not discussed in relation to air circulation of indoor grow environments, the prior art also discusses devices such as air curtain fans that provide air flow across a doorway or large opening to prevent air and/or contaminants from passing therethrough. Such devices are designed to provide air flow in a manner that forms an air barrier, which requires air to flow in a single, uniform direction and at a sufficiently high air velocity. To achieve this functionality, the devices are permanently mounted above the doorway or large opening and are equipped with components (e.g., diffusers, grates, fans, motors, and the like) that limit the flow of air to one direction and to relatively high air velocities. As a result, these prior art devices are not capable of providing controllable and/or selectable air flow or of being detachably mounted and/or repositioned on a grow rack and, therefore, are not suitable for regulating air circulation of an indoor grow environment in a localized manner that optimizes growing conditions or for improving plant cultivation in a variety of different grow environments.

Accordingly, the present invention provides improvements over the prior art as the elongate airflow assembly, as well as the systems and methods that utilizing the same, may be capable of providing controllable and/or selectable air flow and may also be capable of being easily used and/or compatible with different grow environments. The elongate air flow assembly can create and deliver a consistent sheet of air across a wide area at a uniform velocity. The sheet of air may then be directed horizontally across several rows of plants underneath the plant canopy to create a vapor pressure deficit (VPD). With a significant, but not too high, VPD, the plants more readily absorb water through their root system and improve growth rate. In some embodiments an optimal VPD can be formed with an air velocity of 50-150 ft/min. Other benefits of consistent ventilation under the canopy is to prevent high humidity micro-climates that can form in high density grow racks. This method prevents mold and powdery mildew, as well as increases resistance to pests. In more detail, the elongate airflow assembly includes a first end, a second end opposite the first end, a housing extending between the first and second ends and including a plurality of intake slots and a plurality of exit vents, and a plurality of fans including a plurality of blades that are rotatable about a fan axis in a first rotational direction. When the plurality of fan blades are rotated in the first rotational direction, air flows though the plurality of intake slots in a first airflow direction and flows through the plurality of exit vents in a second airflow direction that is, in some embodiments, generally perpendicular to the first airflow direction.

In example aspects, the elongate airflow assembly is configured to provide controllable and/or selectable air flow. Such aspects contemplate that the housing is configured to be rotatable about a first central longitudinal axis that extends through a center of the housing and between the first and second ends to alter and/or change a position of the plurality of exit vents, which, in turn, alters and/or changes an orientation at which air exits the elongate airflow assembly, and, thus, the direction of airflow. These aspects further contemplate that the plurality of fans are configured to rotate their respective pluralities of blades at multiple speeds, which may be selected and/or adjusted to provided air flow at a desired air velocity.

Another example aspect contemplates that the housing of the elongate airflow assembly is configured such that it may be quickly and easily opened to provide convenient access for cleaning, maintenance, repair, and the like. In this aspect, the housing may comprise a top or first shell and a bottom or second shell that are hingedly attached and configured such that the top shell may be moveable into and between a first position (i.e., the elongate airflow assembly in a closed, operable state) and a second position (i.e., the elongate airflow assembly is in an open, inoperable state).

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Referring now to the drawings in more detail, and initially toFIG.1A, which is a top right, front perspective view of an example elongate airflow assembly10including a first end12, a second end14opposite the first end12, and a housing16extending between the first and second ends12,14. The housing16is cylindrically shaped and is configured to be connected with a first end cap22at the first end12and a second end cap24at the second end14. In other examples, the housing16may have a shape that includes straight edges such that the housing has a cross sectional shape of a rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, enneagon, decagon, and the like. Both of the first and second end caps22,24are configured to have a shape that is capable of receiving the housing16, and in this example, the first and second end caps22,24include a flat circular portion and a cylindrical portion extending therefrom that receives the housing16. The first and second end caps22,24each include one or more mounting components26that are configured such that the elongate airflow assembly10may be mounted to a grow rack near the first end12, the second end14, or both. It should be noted that “mounted” includes not only direct coupling mounting, but also indirect coupling mounting, such as by hanging by a chain. Moreover, the flat circular portion of the first end cap22includes a first perimeter portion23and a first interior portion, and likewise, the flat circular portion of the second end cap24includes a second perimeter portion25and a second interior portion. The first and second perimeter portions23,25have a circular shape and respectively encircle the first and second interior portions.

In some aspects, the one or more mounting components26may be configured to be coupled with one or more mounting components of an additional elongate airflow assembly such that multiple elongate airflow assemblies may be coupled to one another and/or mounted on a grow rack. Additionally, at least one of the end caps (e.g., the second end cap24in the illustrated embodiment) includes one or more ports28that are configured to receive a power supply that powers the elongate airflow assembly10and components thereof. In some embodiments, both end caps have ports28so multiple elongate airflow assemblies10can be coupled together in a daisy chain arrangement to send power from one to another. In one aspect, the elongate airflow assembly10is configured to be fully operable when powered by a low voltage DC (e.g., 24 volts DC) power source such that the elongate airflow assembly10is safe for human operators, energy efficient, easy to wire, and suitable for a damp or wet environment. Whether daisy chained, in parallel, or in a star configuration, the fan speed of each elongate airflow assembly10is independently adjustable.

Collectively, the housing16and the first and second end caps22,24are configured to be connected to one another such that the housing16, as well as components therein, may be rotated about a central longitudinal axis of the elongate airflow assembly10that extends through a center of the housing16and between the first and second ends12,14. The housing16includes a plurality of intake slots18and a plurality of exit vents20, which are configured to cooperatively direct a flow of air through the elongate airflow assembly10. For example, air enters the elongate airflow assembly10through the plurality of intake slots18and exits the elongate airflow assembly10through the plurality of exit vents20. Air filters (not shown) may be positioned adjacent one or more of the intake slots18to prevent particulate matter from entering the elongate airflow assembly10. In aspects, the housing16may be rotated about the central longitudinal axis to alter and/or change a position of the plurality of exit vents20, which, in turn, alters and/or changes the orientation at which air exits the elongate airflow assembly10, and thus the direction of airflow.

In additional aspects, the housing16and the first and second end caps22,24may collectively form a structure that encloses internal components of the elongate airflow assembly10. In further aspects, the housing16, the first end cap22, the second end cap24, or any combination thereof may be configured to be corrosion, water, moisture, and/or ultraviolet light resistant. As such, the housing16, the first end cap22, the second end cap24, or any combination thereof may be constructed of stainless steel, galvanized powder coated steel, plastic, or some other material that is resistant to corrosion, water, moisture, and/or ultraviolet light such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC).

FIG.1Bis a perspective view likeFIG.1Aand depicts the elongate airflow assembly10with the housing16removed and shows internal components of the elongate airflow assembly10. As can be seen, the elongate airflow assembly10includes a cage30that extends between the first and second ends12,14and is coupled to an internal portion of the first and second end caps22,24. Although not shown, the cage30may also be coupled to an interior side of the housing16. The elongate airflow assembly10also includes a plurality of fans32, each of which are coupled to the cage30and include a motor34and one or more screens36. The motor34of each fan of the plurality of fans32is positioned at an end of the fan that is distal to the second end14of the elongate airflow assembly10. Each screen of the one or more screens36is aligned with one intake slot of the plurality of intake slots18of the housing16. In example aspects, one or more fans of the plurality of fans32is a cross-flow fan.

FIG.1Cis a cross sectional view of the elongate airflow assembly10taken at cut line1C-1C ofFIG.1A.FIG.1Cdepicts a portion of the elongate airflow assembly10between the cut line1C-1C and the first end12and shows individual components of the elongate airflow assembly10that are included in this portion and/or are located at the cut line1C-1C. As such,FIG.1Cdepicts a first intake slot19of the plurality of intake slots18, a first exit vent21of the plurality of exit vents20, and a first fan33of the plurality of fans32that include a first screen37, a fan axis38, a plurality of blades40, and an airflow exit42. The first screen37is aligned with the first intake slot19and forms an airflow entrance of the first fan33. Similarly, the airflow exit42of the first fan33is aligned with the first exit vent21. The plurality of blades40are arranged such that they form a circular cross sectional shape around the fan axis38, which is parallel to the central longitudinal axis (not identified) of the elongate airflow assembly10. The first fan33is configured such that the motor34(not shown inFIG.1C) moves the plurality of blades40in a first rotational direction6(e.g., a clockwise direction when viewing a side of the first end cap22that is proximal to the housing16, like inFIG.1C) about the fan axis38. When the plurality of blades40are rotated, air flows into the elongate airflow assembly10at a first airflow direction1and then flows out of the elongate airflow assembly at a second airflow direction2that is, in the illustrated embodiment, generally perpendicular to the first airflow direction1(e.g., within ±45 degrees of perpendicular). Moreover, air enters the elongate airflow assembly10through the first intake slot19(e.g., the plurality of intake slots18), travels into the first fan33(e.g., the plurality of fans32) through the first screen37(e.g., the one or more screens36), travels out of the first fan33(e.g., the plurality of fans32) through the airflow exit42, and then exits the elongate airflow assembly10through the first exit vent21(e.g., the plurality of exit vents20).

FIGS.2A-4Billustrate aspects of an example elongate airflow assembly110of an alternate embodiment including a housing140that is configured to direct a flow of air into and out of the elongate airflow assembly110and to provide convenient access to internal components of the elongate airflow assembly for cleaning, maintenance, repair, and the like. In example aspects, the housing140includes a plurality of intake slots142and a plurality of exit vents144(best shown inFIG.2B) that are configured to cooperatively direct a flow of air into and out of the elongate airflow assembly110. Moreover, the housing140further includes a first shell150and a second shell170that are coupled and configured such that the first shell150is moveable to and between two positions (e.g., closed, like inFIGS.2A-2F; open, like inFIGS.3A and3B). Before discussing aspects related to the housing140and features thereof in more detail, general aspects of the elongate airflow assembly110will first be discussed.

With reference toFIGS.2A-2C, which are perspective views, the elongate airflow assembly110includes a first end112, a second end114, a first side116, and a second side118, each of which refers to a general location, area, and/or region on the elongate airflow assembly110. The first and second ends112,114are opposite one another and refer to general areas between which the elongate airflow assembly110longitudinally extends. The first and second sides116,118are also opposite one another and respectively refer to general uppermost and lowermost locations of the elongate airflow assembly110when oriented in an upright position, as shown inFIGS.2A-2C. As such, the first side116refers to a general region that extends along a top of the elongate airflow assembly110, and the second side refers to a general region that extends along a bottom of the elongate airflow assembly110. In addition, becauseFIGS.2A-2Cdepict different perspective views, a visibility of the elongate airflow assembly110at the first and second ends112,114and the first and second sides116,118is different in each ofFIGS.2A-2C. For example,FIG.2Bis a bottom, front perspective and shows more of the second side118of the elongate airflow assembly110thanFIGS.2A and2C, which are top, front and top, rear perspective views, respectively.

The elongate airflow assembly110includes a first end cap120at the first end112and a second end cap130at the second end114. The first and second end caps120,130are configured to be capable of receiving and securing therein a respective portion of the housing140at each of the first and second ends112,114. As shown inFIGS.2A-2C, the first end cap120includes a first flat circular portion122and a first cylindrical portion124extending therefrom, which receives the housing140at the first end112. Similarly, the second end cap130includes a second flat circular portion132and a second cylindrical portion134extending therefrom, which receives the housing140at the second end114. The first flat circular portion122includes a first perimeter portion123and a first interior portion125, and the second flat circular portion includes a second perimeter portion133and a second interior portion135(not visible inFIGS.2A-2C). The first and second perimeter portions123,133have an “O” shape and respectively encircle the first and second interior portions125,135.

The first and second cylindrical portions124,134are configured to define an opening having a shape and size that is suitable for receiving the housing140and that is also suitable for securing the housing140therein. As such, the first and second cylindrical portions124,134define a circular opening with a diameter that is slightly greater than a largest dimension of the housing140that is being received. The housing140may be secured within the circular openings of the first and second cylindrical portions124,134via any suitable coupling means, such as bolts, screws, rivets, and the like, and it should be appreciated by one of ordinary skill in the art that any suitable method may be used. Aspects herein contemplate that one or more features of the first and second end caps120,130may be selected and/or modified to be suitable for a housing with different features than the housing140and/or for a desired use of the elongate airflow assembly110. In such aspects, the first and second cylindrical portions124,134may be configured to define openings having shapes and sizes that are suitable for receiving a housing that is larger, smaller, and/or of a different shape than housing140and that may also be suitable for securing the housing therein.

The first and second end caps120,130are configured such that the elongate airflow assembly110may be mounted to a grow rack near the first end112, the second end114, or both. As such, the first end cap120includes a first plurality of mounting components126, and the second end cap130includes a second plurality of mounting components136. The first and second pluralities of mounting components126,136are depicted as apertures on the first and second perimeter portions123,133, but it should be understood by one having ordinary skill in the art that the first and second pluralities of mounting components126,136may be configured for any coupling means suitable for mounting the elongate airflow assembly110to a grow rack near the first end112, the second end,114, or both. Further, the first end cap120includes a first port128located on the first interior portion125of the first flat circular portion122. The first port128is configured to receive a power supply that powers the elongate airflow assembly110and components thereof. In example aspects, the first port128is configured to receive power that is low voltage DC (e.g., 24 volts DC), and the elongate airflow assembly110is configured to be fully operable when powered by a low voltage DC power source. Such aspects contribute, at least in part, to the elongate airflow assembly110being safe for human operators, energy efficient, easy to wire, and suitable for a damp or wet environment.

Example aspects herein contemplate that the first and second end caps120,130and/or the first and second pluralities of mounting components126,136may be configured to be coupled with one or more mounting components of an additional elongate airflow assembly such that multiple elongate airflow assemblies may be coupled to one another and/or mounted on a grow rack. Other example aspects herein contemplate that at least one the first and second end caps120,130(e.g., the first end cap120inFIGS.2A-2C) includes one or more ports (e.g., the first port128) that are configured to receive a power supply that powers the elongate airflow assembly110and components thereof. In one example aspect, both the first and second end caps120,130are configured to include one or more ports that can be utilized to couple multiple elongate airflow assemblies together (e.g., in a daisy chain arrangement) to send power from one to another.

Additional example aspects contemplate that the first and second end caps120,130are configured to include a swivel feature in which one or more parts of each of the first and second end caps120,130are independently moveable relative to any of their remaining parts. In one example aspect, the first and second end caps120,130are configured such that their cylindrical and interior portions (e.g., the first and second cylindrical portions124,134and the first and second interior portions,125,135) are independently movable relative to their perimeter portions (e.g., the first and second perimeter portions123,133). To afford such functionality to the first end cap120, for example, the first perimeter portion123may include a lip, and the first cylindrical portion124may include a groove with a size that permits the lip to be freely moveable therein. Moreover, the first interior portion125may extend over the groove and connect with the first cylindrical portion124in a manner that contains the lip within the grove without affecting its movability. In another example, the first perimeter portion123may be positioned around an end portion of the first cylindrical portion124, both of which may be sized so that the first perimeter portion123is rotatable around the first cylindrical portion124. Further, the first interior portion125may be connected to the first cylindrical portion124and partially overlap with the first perimeter portion123. As result of both instances, the first cylindrical portion124and the first interior portion125are moveable independent of the first perimeter portion123and vice versa. Similar features may be included in the second end cap130, as well as the first and second end caps22,24, to afford the same functionality. This allows the elongate airflow assembly110to be mounted to a growing rack (e.g., inFIG.5), or hung by chains therefrom, by one or more of the first and second pluralities of mounting components126,136in the first and second perimeter portions123,133, but still allow the operator of the elongate airflow assembly110to change the direction air flows from the elongate airflow assembly110by rotating the housing140. The operator can rotate the housing140until the air flow from the elongate airflow assembly110is horizontal such that it is directed across all of the plants adjacent thereto on a particular shelf of a grow rack. The operator may also make multiple small rotations of the housing140to accommodate the changes in canopy height as the plants grow without having to unmount the elongate airflow assembly110from the grow rack.

Turning now to the housing140, and with additional reference toFIG.3A, it includes an internal compartment141that is configured to house internal components of the elongate airflow assembly110. The internal compartment141may be configured to include one or more features for housing, mounting, retaining, supporting, and/or securing a variety of internal components of the elongate airflow assembly110. Moreover, such features may be selectively included so that the internal compartment141is suitable for a particular type of internal component. In this example, the elongate airflow assembly110includes a plurality of fans180, and the internal compartment141includes retention structures186that longitudinally extend between the first and second ends112,114and/or laterally extend within the internal compartment141. The retention structures186are coupled to an interior of each of the first and second end caps120,130and are also coupled to an interior of the housing140. The plurality of fans180are coupled to the retention structures186in a manner that retains their position relative to the housing140. Additional aspects related to the plurality of fans180are later discussed.

With further reference now toFIG.2D, which shows an elevated cross-sectional view taken at cut line2D-2D ofFIG.2A, the housing140extends between the first and second ends112,114and is configured to connect with the first end cap120at the first end112and the second end cap130at the second end114. Moreover, the housing140, in this illustrated exemplary embodiment, has an elongate shape with ten planar sides that form straight edges proximate the first and second ends112,114and a cross sectional shape of a decagon. Moreover, all of the sides have similar dimensions (e.g., length, width), and each side forms a substantially similar angle with an adjacent side. Aspects herein contemplate that a shape the housing140may be different than the example illustrated inFIGS.2A-4B. Such aspects contemplate that a shape of the housing140may be a cylindrical, like the housing16, or may have a shape with more or less than ten sides, one or more curved or straight sides, one or more sides of different sizes, or sides that form a cross sectional shape of a rectangle, pentagon, hexagon, heptagon, octagon, enneagon, and the like.

As previously mentioned, the housing140includes the first and second shells150,170and also includes a first end portion121and a second end portion131. When the housing140and the elongate airflow assembly110are oriented in the manner shown inFIGS.2A-2D, the first end portion121, the second end portion131, and the first shell150collectively form an upper half of the housing140and include the five planar sides of the housing140that are most proximal to the first side116. The first end portion121is proximate the first end112and is received by and secured within the first cylindrical portion124of the first end cap120. Similarly, the second end portion131is proximate the second end114and is received by and secured within the second cylindrical portion134of the second end cap130. The first shell150includes a first and second edge (not identified) that respectively abut an edge of the first end portion121and an edge of the second end portion131. The second shell170forms a lower half of the housing140and includes the five planar sides that are proximal to the second side118. The second shell170continuously extends between the first and second ends112,114and is received by and secured within the first cylindrical portion124of the first end cap120at the first end112and the second cylindrical portion134of the second end cap130at the second end114.

In example aspects, the housing140includes a filter cage160that is configured to be positionable overtop a portion of the first shell150such that an air filter may be positioned adjacent to the plurality of intake slots142. The air filter (not identified) prevents particulate matter from entering the elongate airflow assembly110. Generally, the filter cage160longitudinally extends between the first and second end portions121,131of the housing140and has a structure that is similar in shape to, but slightly larger than, a structure of the first shell150. Further, the filter cage160may be configured to include a built-in air filter and/or to releasably retain a temporary air filter. Aspects herein contemplate that the filter cage160may be integral to the first shell150or that the filter cage160and the first shell150may be separate, individual components of the housing140. However, it is to be understood that these descriptions are not limiting and that any features and/or aspects of the first shell150discussed apart from or without reference to the filter cage160are applicable to any configuration of the first shell150contemplated herein.

Turning now to aspects related to airflow, the plurality of intake slots142and the plurality of exit vents144(best shown inFIGS.2B and2D) longitudinally extend along sides of the housing140and cooperatively direct a flow of air into and out of the elongate airflow assembly110. The plurality of intake slots142are included in the first shell150at three sides and form airflow entrances for the plurality of fans180. The plurality of exit vents144form airflow exits for the plurality of fans180and are included in the second shell170at one side. To further describe aspects related to air flow, specific reference is made toFIG.2D.

FIG.2Dillustrates a portion of the elongate airflow assembly110between the cut line2D-2D ofFIG.2Aand the first end112. At this portion, the elongate airflow assembly110has a first fan181of the plurality of fans180, which includes a first fan axis101, and a first plurality of blades191, and portions of the pluralities of intake slots142and exit vents144that respectively form, at least in part, an airflow entrance and an airflow exit for the first fan181. The plurality of blades191are arranged to form a circular cross-sectional shape around the first fan axis101. The first fan181is configured such that a first motor (not shown) of the one or more motors96(not shown inFIG.2D) moves the plurality of blades191in the first rotational direction6(e.g., a clockwise direction on a side of the first end cap120that is visible inFIG.2D) about the first fan axis101. When the plurality of blades191are rotated, air flows into the elongate airflow assembly110at a range of airflow directions that includes first airflow directions1,3, and4and then flows out of the elongate airflow assembly110at the second airflow direction2. In more detail, air enters the elongate airflow assembly110through the plurality of intake slots142of the housing140and travels through air filters (not shown) positioned adjacent to the plurality of intake slots142, travels into the first fan181, travels out of the first fan181, and then exits the elongate airflow assembly110through the plurality of exit vents144of the housing140as a generally planar sheet of air. Additionally, the range of airflow directions refers to multiple airflow directions at which air may flow into the elongate airflow assembly110throughout the plurality of intake slots142and includes the first airflow direction1, a third airflow direction3, and a fourth airflow direction4, which are all generally perpendicular to the second airflow direction2(e.g., within ±45 degrees of perpendicular, in the illustrated embodiment).

In example aspects, the housing140, the first end cap120, and the second end cap130are configured such that the housing140, as well as components therein may be rotated about the central longitudinal axis100, which extends through a center of the housing140and between the first and second ends112,114. As previously discussed, the first and second end caps120,130are configured such that the first and second cylindrical portions124,134are moveable independent of the first and second perimeter portions123,133. Further, because the housing140is connected to the first and second end caps120,130at the first and second cylindrical portions124,134, the housing140is also moveable independent of the first and second perimeter portions123,133. Thus, when the first and second perimeter portions123,133have a relatively fixed position (e.g., when the elongate airflow assembly110is mounted (which includes being hung)), the housing140may be rotated about the central longitudinal axis100to change a position of the plurality of exit vents144relative to the first and second perimeter portions123,133, which, in turn, changes the orientation of the air that flows out of the elongate airflow assembly110.

On account of the aforementioned aspects and/or features of the housing140, the first end cap120, the second end cap130, and the plurality of fans180, the elongate airflow assembly110provides a flow of air in a selectable and/or adjustable airflow direction. Referring again toFIG.2Dfor further explanation, the elongate airflow assembly110is depicted in an upright position, and a first aperture127a, a second aperture127b, and a third aperture127cof the first plurality of mounting components126are identified for reference. Moreover, the housing140is depicted in a position, which is relative the first and second perimeter portions123,133, at which the plurality of intake slots142and the first aperture127aare generally aligned (e.g., within ±20 degrees of alignment) such that a straight line extending from the central longitudinal axis100along a first plane (not identified) that is parallel to a plane formed by the cut line2D-2D (and a side of first perimeter portion123that is visible inFIG.2D) intersects or nearly intersects with both the plurality of intake slots142and the first aperture127a. The plurality of exit vents144and the second aperture127bare also generally aligned in this same manner. Moreover, the second airflow direction2(i.e., the direction at which air flows out of the elongate airflow assembly110) is generally parallel (e.g., within ±20 degrees of parallel) to a line extending from the central longitudinal axis100that intersects or nearly intersects with the plurality of exit vents144and the second aperture127b.

Continuing, a position of the housing140relative to the first and second perimeter portions123,133may be changed by rotating the housing140about the central longitudinal axis100in either the first rotational direction6or a second rotational direction7, which is opposite the first rotational direction6. As a result of rotating the housing140, a position of the plurality of exit vents144and the second airflow direction2also changes, which, in turn, changes and/or adjusts a direction at which air flows out of the elongate airflow assembly110. For example, rotating the housing140in the second rotational direction7such that the plurality of intake slots142are generally aligned with the third aperture127cin a manner that is the same as and/or similar to how they are generally aligned with the first aperture127ainFIG.2D, would position the plurality of exit vents144and the second airflow direction2more towards or at a lowermost side of the elongate airflow assembly110, which, in turn, provides a flow of air in more downward direction. As another example, rotating the housing140in the first rotational direction6such that the plurality of exit vents144are generally aligned with the third aperture127cin a manner that is the same as and/or similar to how they are generally aligned with the second aperture127binFIG.2D, would position the second airflow direction2more towards or at a front side of the elongate airflow assembly110, which, in turn, provides a flow of air in more upward direction. This adjustability allows the operator to control the angle and direction of the planar sheet of air flow produced by the elongate airflow assembly110to match the needs of the plants adjacent thereto.

In additional aspects related to air flow and with further reference toFIG.2F, which is a cross sectional view taken at the cut line2F-2F ofFIG.2A, one or more fans of the plurality of fans180may be configured such that variable volumes of airflow are provided at different portions of the elongate airflow assembly110. InFIG.2F, the elongate airflow assembly110has a second fan182of the plurality of fans180that includes a second fan axis102and a second plurality of blades192. While the second fan182operates similarly to the first fan181, and air flows through the elongate airflow assembly110in a similar fashion, the first fan181, the second fan182, and/or any one of the plurality of fans180may be configure to rotate its plurality of blades at variable speeds and may be further configured to operate independently. For example, the first and the second fans181,182may be set at different speed settings in which the first plurality of blades191and the second plurality of blades192rotate at different speeds. As a result, a volume of airflow provided by the elongate airflow assembly110at a portion that includes the first fan181is different than a volume of airflow provided at a portion that includes the second fan. In further aspects, the first fan181, the second fan182, and/or any one of the plurality of fans180may be a cross-flow fan.

Aspects and features of the first shell150, the second shell170, and the filter cage160that are related to their movability and/or coupling will now be discussed. Beginning with the first and second shells150,170, they are configured such that the first shell150is releasably secured in a closed position (e.g.,FIGS.1A-2F) and, when unsecured, is moveable to and between the closed position and an open position (e.g.,FIGS.3A,3B). As shown inFIGS.2A and2B, the housing140includes a first housing latch148proximate the first end112that is coupled to the first end portion121and a second housing latch149proximate the second end114that is coupled to the second end portion131. The first and second housing latches148,149are configured to releasably secure the first shell150in the closed position. That is, the first and second housing latches148,149can be positioned to extend over a portion of the first shell150in a manner that prevents the first shell150from moving out of the closed position and can be repositioned to not extend over any portion of the first shell150such that the first shell150is moveable out of the closed position. Additionally, the housing140further includes a first filter latch163and a second filter latch165that are coupled to the first shell150at a first closure portion158. The first and second filter latches163,165are configured to releasably secure the filter cage160and operate in a same manner as the first and second housing latches148,149.

As can be seen inFIG.2C, the housing140also includes a first hinge145proximate the first end112, a second hinge146proximate the second end114, and a third hinge147midway between the first and second ends112,114. The first, second, and third hinges145,146,147are configured to hingedly couple the first and second shells150,170such that the first shell150is hingedly moveable. Moreover, each of the first, second, and third hinges145,146,147are attached to a first hinged portion156of the first shell150and a second hinged portion176of the second shell170. Further, the first, second, and third hinges145,146,147are also configured to hingedly couple the first shell150and the filter cage160such that the filter cage160is hingedly moveable. As such, each of the first, second, and third hinges145,146,147are also attached to a filter hinged portion166of the filter cage160.

Referring toFIG.2F, numeral151designates a first position of the first shell150(e.g., closed position, like inFIGS.2A-2F) and numeral161designates a first filter position of the filter cage160(e.g., closed position, like inFIGS.2A-2F). As shown, when the first shell150is in the first position151, the first closure portion158of the first shell150is adjacent to a second closure portion178of the second shell170, and the second housing latch149(and also the first housing latch148) is positionable to extend over a portion of the first shell150at the first closure portion158to secure it in the first position151. Moreover, when the filter cage160is in the first filter position161, a filter closure portion168of the filter cage160is adjacent to the first closure portion158of the first shell150, and the second filter latch165(and also the first filter latch163) is positionable to extend over a portion of the filter cage160at the filter closure portion168to secure it in the first filter position161.

Staying withFIG.2F, the second hinge146includes a shell joint56proximate a first hinged portion156of the first shell150and a second hinged portion176portion of the second shell170. The shell joint56is configured to be a pivot point about which the first shell150is hingedly moveably relative to the second shell170. The second hinge146also includes a filter joint66proximate a filter hinged portion166of the filter cage160and the first hinged portion156of the first shell150. The filter joint66is configured to be a pivot point about which the filter cage160is hingedly moveable relative to the first shell150. Although not shown or identified, each of the first and third hinges145,147also include a shell joint and a filter joint that respectively have the same features as the shell joint56and the filter joint66.

With additional reference toFIGS.3A and3B, in example aspects, the first shell150is moveable to and between the first position151and a second position152(e.g., open). InFIGS.3A and3B, the elongate airflow assembly110is depicted with the first shell150in the second position152.FIG.3Ais a top front perspective view, andFIG.3Bis a cross sectional view taken at the cut line3B-3B ofFIG.3A, which is made at the same location on the elongate airflow assembly110as the cut line2F-2F ofFIG.2A. Thus,FIG.3B-3Billustrates the same portion of the elongate airflow assembly110asFIG.2Fbut with the first shell150in the second position152. Further, inFIG.2F, an arrow52illustrates movement of the first shell150in a second shell hinged direction (e.g., opening direction), and similarly, an arrow51inFIG.3Billustrates movement of the first shell150in a first hinged direction (e.g., closing direction).

As shown inFIG.3B, when the first shell150is in the second position152, the first closure portion158of the first shell150is no longer adjacent to and is spaced apart from the second closure portion178of the second shell170. Moreover, due to the manner in which the filter cage160is coupled and releasably secured with the first shell150, movement of the first shell150in the first and second shell hinged directions51,52results in movement of the filter cage160, although a position of the filter cage160relative to the first shell150is unchanged. Thus, inFIG.3B, the filter cage160is still in the first filter position161, and the filter closure portion168of the filter cage160is adjacent to the first closure portion158of the first shell150.

Continuing withFIG.2F, but with further reference toFIGS.4A and4B, in example aspects, the filter cage160is moveable to and between the first filter position161and a second filter position162(e.g., open). InFIGS.4A and4B, the elongate airflow assembly110is depicted with the filter cage160in the second filter position162and the first shell150in the first position151.FIG.4Ais a top front perspective view, andFIG.4Bis a cross sectional view taken at the cut line4B-4B ofFIG.4A, which is made at the same location on the elongate airflow assembly110as the cut lines2F-2F ofFIG.2A and3B-3BofFIG.3A. Thus,FIG.4Billustrates the same portion of the elongate airflow assembly110asFIG.2FandFIG.3Bbut with the filter cage160in the second filter position162and the first shell150in the first position151. Moreover, inFIG.2F, an arrow62illustrates movement of the filter cage160in a second filter hinged direction (e.g., opening direction), and similarly, an arrow61inFIG.4Billustrates movement of the filter cage160in a first filter hinged direction (e.g., closing direction). Further, the arrow52again depicts movement of the first shell150in the second shell hinged direction52since, when the filter cage160is in the second filter position162, the first shell150is movable in the second shell hinged direction52.

As can be seen inFIG.4B, when the filter cage160is in the second filter position and the first shell150is in the first position151, the filter closure portion168is no longer adjacent to and is spaced apart from the first closure portion158of the first shell150. Moreover, the first closure portion158of the first shell150is adjacent to the second closure portion178of the second shell170.

On account of the aforementioned aspects and/or features of the first and second shells150,170, the filter cage160, the first, second, and third hinges145,146,147, and the first and second housing and filter latches148,149,163,165, the housing140provides convenient access to internal components of the elongate airflow assembly110for cleaning, maintenance, repair, and the like. In one example and usingFIGS.3A and4Afor reference, the first and second housing latches148,149can quickly be positioned to unsecure the first shell150, which can then be moved in the second shell hinged direction52to the second position152to access the internal compartment141. From there, the plurality of fans180and one or more motors196of the plurality of fans180can be cleaned, repaired, replaced and the like. In another example, the first and second filter latches163,165can be quickly positioned to unsecure the filter cage160, which can then be moved in the second filter hinged direction62to replace and/or clean an air filter (not shown). In yet another example, the first shell150and the filter cage160can be moved separately such that a plurality filter slots164and/or a plurality of housing slots154, which collectively form the plurality of intake slots142, can be cleaned, repaired, replaced, and the like.

Additional aspects herein contemplate that elongate airflow assembly110is configured to be suitable for a variety of grow environments. In such aspects, the housing140, the first end cap120, the second end cap130, their respective components, and/or any combination thereof may be configured to be corrosion, water, moisture resistance, and/or ultraviolet light resistant. As such, the housing140, the first end cap120, the second end cap130, their respective components, and/or any combination thereof may be constructed of aluminum, stainless steel, galvanized powder coated steel, plastic, or some other material (e.g., polyvinyl chloride (PVC)) that is resistant to corrosion, water, and/or moisture.

FIG.5is a perspective view and shows an improved plant cultivation system500that is configured to optimize and/or improve growing conditions of an indoor environment in which plants are grown. The improved plant cultivation system500includes a plurality of elongate airflow assemblies510, a grow rack520, and one or more sets of plants530. In the example ofFIG.1, the plurality of elongate airflow assemblies510includes a first elongate airflow assembly511, a second elongate airflow assembly512, a third elongate airflow assembly513, and a fourth elongate airflow assembly514, each of which may have the same components, aspects, features or combinations thereof of the elongate airflow assemblies10,110. The grow rack520includes a first pair of posts522, a second pair of posts524, a bottom shelf526and a top shelf528. The first and second pairs of posts522,524are configured such that each post is coupled to a corner of the bottom shelf526and a corner of the top shelf528in a manner that secures the bottom and top shelves526,528into a respective position in the grow rack520. Further, the one or more sets of plants530includes a first set of plants531that are on the bottom shelf526and a second set of plants532that are on the top shelf528.

Additionally, each post of the first and second pairs of posts522,524is also configured to couple with an end of one or more of the first, second, third, and fourth elongate airflow assemblies511,512,513,514. As such, the first and second elongate and airflow assemblies511,512are mounted to the grow rack520between the first pair of posts522at their respective first and second ends, and likewise, the third and fourth elongate airflow assemblies513,514are mounted to the grow rack520between the second pair of posts524. Moreover, the first, second, third, and fourth elongate airflow assemblies511,512,513,514and the first and second pairs of posts522,524are configured such that each of the first, second, third, and fourth elongate airflow assemblies511,512,513,514is selectively secured at a desired vertical position in the grow rack520and may be demounted, remounted, and/or secured at a different vertical position. Accordingly, the first, second, third, and fourth elongate airflow assemblies511,512,513,514in combination with the grow rack520may be utilized to provide controlled air flow to the first and second sets of plants531,532, which, in turn, allows for a moisture level of and/or water that is on the first and second plants531,532to be reduced. Further, the first, second, third, and fourth elongate airflow assemblies511,512,513,514are configured to operate in a small and/or spatially constrained area, while using minimum power. As such, the improved plant cultivation system500may be utilized to optimize and/or improve growing conditions for plants contained in an indoor environment that has spatial constraints and in a manner that is energy efficient. In an alternate embodiment than depicted inFIG.5, several rows of plants may be provided on each shelf and a single elongate airflow assembly may be associated with each shelf at a vertical height to direct a consistent sheet of air at a uniform low velocity air flow across the several rows of plants underneath the canopy.

FIG.6illustrates a flow diagram of an example method600of improved plant cultivation. As shown, at block602, a first step of the method600is depicted, which is providing a plurality of elongate airflow assemblies, such as the elongate airflow assemblies10,110. At block604, a second step of the method600is depicted, which includes mounting one or more of the elongate airflow assemblies10,110on a grow rack, such as via the mounting components26and/or the first and second pluralities of mounting components126,136.

Block606depicts a third step of the method600and includes positioning the mounted elongate airflow assemblies10,110to provide airflow to one or more plants on the grow rack, such as by rotating the housing16,140about the central longitudinal axis100in the first and/or second rotational directions6,7. At block608, a fourth step of the method is depicted, which includes adjusting at least one of the mounted elongate airflow assemblies10,110to provide a different air flow to one or more plants, such as by rotating the housing16,140about the central longitudinal axis100a second time in the first and/or second rotational directions6,7such that a position of the plurality of exit vents20,144relative to the first and/or second perimeter portions23,25,123,133of one of the mounted elongate airflow assemblies10,110is different than at least one other mounted elongate airflow assemblies.

Accordingly, the present invention discloses an elongate airflow assembly that provides controlled airflow in a manner that is suitable for improved cultivation of plants. The elongate airflow assembly may be included in a plurality of elongate airflow assemblies and may be used as part of a system and/or method of improved plant cultivation. Many variations can be made to the illustrated embodiment of the present invention without departing from the scope of the present invention. Such modifications are within the scope of the present invention. For example, a housing could include a plurality of intake slots and/or a plurality of exit vents that have a different configuration (e.g., located at a different position on the housing, be formed of one or more discrete portions, etc.). Another modification would be changing the orientation of the air intake flow to the air exit flow to be any angle that permits the creation of a suitable air exit flow. Other modifications would be within the scope of the present invention.

From the foregoing it will be seen that this invention is one well adapted to attain all ends and objects hereinabove set forth together with the other advantages which are obvious and which are inherent to the method and apparatus. It will be understood that certain features and subcombinations are of utility and may be employed without reference to other features and subcombinations. This is contemplated by and is within the scope of the invention.

Since many possible embodiments may be made of the invention without departing from the scope thereof, it is to be understood that all matter herein set forth or shown in the accompanying drawings is to be interpreted as illustrative of applications of the principles of this invention, and not in a limiting sense.