Hydration system for an indoor garden center and a method of operating the same

Abstract

An indoor gardening appliance includes a liner defining a grow chamber and a grow module rotatably mounted within the grow chamber and defining a root chamber. A hydration system is fluidly coupled to the root chamber for selectively implementing a hydration cycle where the root chamber is charged with mist and an air circulation system selectively urges a flow of air through the root chamber to maintain a desired temperature. A controller is configured for stopping the flow of air during the hydration cycle, e.g., to minimize disruption of the hydration cycle. The stopping of the flow of air may be time-based, e.g., based on the start/end times of the hydration cycle, or may be based on moisture level, e.g., as measured by an optical sensor.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present subject matter relates generally to systems for gardening plants indoors, and more particularly, to a system and method for hydrating plants within an indoor gardening appliance.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Conventional indoor garden centers include a cabinet defining a grow chamber having a number of trays or racks positioned therein to support seedlings or plant material, e.g., for growing herbs, vegetables, or other plants in an indoor environment. In addition, such indoor garden centers may include an environmental control system that maintains the growing chamber at a desired temperature or humidity. Certain indoor garden centers may also include hydration systems for watering the plants and/or artificial lighting systems that provide the light necessary for such plants to grow.

Conventional hydration systems provide water and/or nutrients onto the plant roots by periodically misting or otherwise providing a flow of liquid into the root chamber. After a hydration cycle, small droplets of water gently float throughout the root chamber and are slowly deposited on roots and walls. Notably, if cooling air flows through the root chamber during these periods of high droplet density, the droplets may fail to reach roots as effectively.

Accordingly, an improved indoor garden center would be useful. More particularly, an indoor garden center with features that facilitate improved hydration cycles would be particularly beneficial.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Aspects and advantages of the invention will be set forth in part in the following description, or may be apparent from the description, or may be learned through practice of the invention.

In one exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a gardening appliance is provided, including a liner positioned within a cabinet and defining a grow chamber, a grow module mounted within the liner and defining a root chamber, and a plurality of apertures defined through the grow module for receiving one or more plant pods that extend into the root chamber. A hydration system selectively implements a hydration cycle to provide a flow of liquid into the root chamber and an air circulation system is fluidly coupled to the root chamber for urging a flow of air through the root chamber. A controller is in operative communication with the hydration system and the air circulation system, the controller being configured for stopping the flow of air during the hydration cycle.

In another exemplary aspect of the present disclosure, a method of operating a gardening appliance is provided. The gardening appliance includes a grow module defining a root chamber, a hydration system, and an air circulation system. The method includes operating the air circulation system to urge a flow of air through the root chamber, stopping the flow of air prior to commencement of a hydration cycle, implementing a hydration cycle by using the hydration system to provide a flow of liquid into the root chamber, and preventing the flow of air until after the hydration cycle has ended.

These and other features, aspects and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with reference to the following description and appended claims. The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

A full and enabling disclosure of the present invention, including the best mode thereof, directed to one of ordinary skill in the art, is set forth in the specification, which makes reference to the appended figures.

FIG. 1 provides a perspective view of a gardening appliance according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 2 depicts a front view of the exemplary gardening appliance of FIG. 1 with the doors open according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 3 is a cross sectional view of the exemplary gardening appliance of FIG. 1, taken along Line 3-3 from FIG. 2 with an internal divider removed for clarity.

FIG. 4 is a top perspective view of the exemplary gardening appliance of FIG. 1, with the top panel of the cabinet removed to reveal a rotatable grow module according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 5 provides a perspective cross sectional view of the exemplary gardening appliance of FIG. 1 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 6 provides a perspective view of the grow module of the exemplary gardening appliance of FIG. 1 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 7 provides a perspective cross sectional view of the exemplary grow module of FIG. 6 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 8 provides a top cross-sectional view of the exemplary grow module of FIG. 6 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 9 provides a plot illustrating the amount of water in the air within the root chamber during hydration cycle according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter.

FIG. 10 provides a method of operating a gardening appliance during a hydration cycle in accordance with example embodiments of the present disclosure.

Repeat use of reference characters in the present specification and drawings is intended to represent the same or analogous features or elements of the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

Reference now will be made in detail to embodiments of the invention, one or more examples of which are illustrated in the drawings. Each example is provided by way of explanation of the invention, not limitation of the invention. In fact, it will be apparent to those skilled in the art that various modifications and variations can be made in the present invention without departing from the scope or spirit of the invention. For instance, features illustrated or described as part of one embodiment can be used with another embodiment to yield a still further embodiment. Thus, it is intended that the present invention covers such modifications and variations as come within the scope of the appended claims and their equivalents.

As used herein, terms of approximation, such as “approximately,” “substantially,” or “about,” refer to being within a ten percent (10%) margin of error of the stated value. Moreover, as used herein, the terms “first,” “second,” and “third” may be used interchangeably to distinguish one component from another and are not intended to signify location or importance of the individual components. The terms “upstream” and “downstream” refer to the relative direction with respect to fluid flow in a fluid pathway. For example, “upstream” refers to the direction from which the fluid flows, and “downstream” refers to the direction to which the fluid flows.

FIG. 1 provides a front view of a gardening appliance 100 according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. According to exemplary embodiments, gardening appliance 100 may be used as an indoor garden center for growing plants. It should be appreciated that the embodiments described herein are intended only for explaining aspects of the present subject matter. Variations and modifications may be made to gardening appliance 100 while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

Gardening appliance 100 includes a housing or cabinet 102 that extends between a top 104 and a bottom 106 along a vertical direction V, between a first side 108 and a second side 110 along a lateral direction L, and between a front side 112 and a rear side 114 along a transverse direction T. Each of the vertical direction V, lateral direction L, and transverse direction T are mutually perpendicular to one another and form an orthogonal direction system.

Gardening appliance 100 may include an insulated liner 120 positioned within cabinet 102. Liner 120 may at least partially define a temperature controlled, referred to herein generally as a grow chamber 122, within which plants 124 may be grown. Although gardening appliance 100 is referred to herein as growing plants 124, it should be appreciated that other organisms or living things may be grown or stored in gardening appliance 100. For example, algae, fungi (e.g., including mushrooms), or other living organisms may be grown or stored in gardening appliance 100. The specific application described herein is not intended to limit the scope of the present subject matter.

Cabinet 102, or more specifically, liner 120 may define a substantially enclosed back region or portion 130. In addition, cabinet 102 and liner 120 may define a front opening, referred to herein as front display opening 132, through which a user of gardening appliance 100 may access grow chamber 122, e.g., for harvesting, planting, pruning, or otherwise interacting with plants 124. According to an exemplary embodiment, enclosed back portion 130 may be defined as a portion of liner 120 that defines grow chamber 122 proximate rear side 114 of cabinet 102. In addition, front display opening 132 may generally be positioned proximate or coincide with front side 112 of cabinet 102.

Gardening appliance 100 may further include one or more doors 134 that are rotatably mounted to cabinet 102 for providing selective access to grow chamber 122. For example, FIG. 1 illustrates doors 134 in the closed position such that they may help insulate grow chamber 122. By contrast, FIG. 2 illustrates doors 134 in the open positioned for accessing grow chamber 122 and plants 124 stored therein. Doors 134 may further include a transparent window 136 through which a user may observe plants 124 without opening doors 134.

Although doors 134 are illustrated as being rectangular and being mounted on front side 112 of cabinet 102 in FIGS. 1 and 2, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, doors 134 may have different shapes, mounting locations, etc. For example, doors 134 may be curved, may be formed entirely from glass, etc. In addition, doors 134 may have integral features for controlling light passing into and/or out of grow chamber 122, such as internal louvers, tinting, UV treatments, polarization, etc. One skilled in the art will appreciate that other chamber and door configurations are possible and within the scope of the present invention.

According to the illustrated embodiment, cabinet 102 further defines a drawer 138 positioned proximate bottom 106 of cabinet 102 and being slidably mounted to cabinet for providing convenient storage for plant nutrients, system accessories, water filters, etc. In addition, behind drawer 138 is a mechanical compartment 140 for receipt of an environmental control system including a sealed system for regulating the temperature within grow chamber 122, as described in more detail below.

FIG. 3 provides a schematic view of certain components of an environmental control system 148 that may be used to regulate a temperature within grow chamber 122. Specifically, environmental control system 148 may include a sealed system 150, a duct system 160, and a hydration system 270, or any other suitable components or subsystems for regulating an environment within grow chamber 122, e.g., for facilitating improved or regulated growth of plants 124 positioned therein. Specifically, FIG. 3 illustrates sealed system 150 within mechanical compartment 140. Although an exemplary sealed system is illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made to sealed system 150 while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, sealed system 150 may include additional or alternative components, different ducting configurations, etc.

As shown, sealed system 150 includes a compressor 152, a first heat exchanger or evaporator 154 and a second heat exchanger or condenser 156. As is generally understood, compressor 152 is generally operable to circulate or urge a flow of refrigerant through sealed system 150, which may include various conduits which may be utilized to flow refrigerant between the various components of sealed system 150. Thus, evaporator 154 and condenser 156 may be between and in fluid communication with each other and compressor 152.

During operation of sealed system 150, refrigerant flows from evaporator 154 and to compressor 152, and compressor 152 is generally configured to direct compressed refrigerant from compressor 152 to condenser 156. For example, refrigerant may exit evaporator 154 as a fluid in the form of a superheated vapor. Upon exiting evaporator 154, the refrigerant may enter compressor 152, which is operable to compress the refrigerant. Accordingly, the pressure and temperature of the refrigerant may be increased in compressor 152 such that the refrigerant becomes a more superheated vapor.

Condenser 156 is disposed downstream of compressor 152 and is operable to reject heat from the refrigerant. For example, the superheated vapor from compressor 152 may enter condenser 156 and transfer energy to air surrounding condenser 156 (e.g., to create a flow of heated air). In this manner, the refrigerant condenses into a saturated liquid and/or liquid vapor mixture. A condenser fan (not shown) may be positioned adjacent condenser 156 and may facilitate or urge the flow of heated air across the coils of condenser 156 (e.g., from ambient atmosphere) in order to facilitate heat transfer.

According to the illustrated embodiment, an expansion device or a variable electronic expansion valve 158 may be further provided to regulate refrigerant expansion. During use, variable electronic expansion valve 158 may generally expand the refrigerant, lowering the pressure and temperature thereof. In this regard, refrigerant may exit condenser 156 in the form of high liquid quality/saturated liquid vapor mixture and travel through variable electronic expansion valve 158 before flowing through evaporator 154. Variable electronic expansion valve 158 is generally configured to be adjustable, e.g., such that the flow of refrigerant (e.g., volumetric flow rate in milliliters per second) through variable electronic expansion valve 158 may be selectively varied or adjusted.

Evaporator 154 is disposed downstream of variable electronic expansion valve 158 and is operable to heat refrigerant within evaporator 154, e.g., by absorbing thermal energy from air surrounding the evaporator (e.g., to create a flow of cooled air). For example, the liquid or liquid vapor mixture refrigerant from variable electronic expansion valve 158 may enter evaporator 154. Within evaporator 154, the refrigerant from variable electronic expansion valve 158 receives energy from the flow of cooled air and vaporizes into superheated vapor and/or high quality vapor mixture. An air handler or evaporator fan (not shown) is positioned adjacent evaporator 154 and may facilitate or urge the flow of cooled air across evaporator 154 in order to facilitate heat transfer. From evaporator 154, refrigerant may return to compressor 152 and the vapor-compression cycle may continue.

As explained above, environmental control system 148 includes a sealed system 150 for providing a flow of heated air or a flow cooled air throughout grow chamber 122 as needed. To direct this air, environmental control system 148 includes a duct system 160 for directing the flow of temperature regulated air, identified herein simply as flow of air 162 (see, e.g., FIG. 3). In this regard, for example, an evaporator fan can generate a flow of cooled air as the air passes over evaporator 154 and a condenser fan can generate a flow of heated air as the air passes over condenser 156.

These flows of air 162 are routed through a cooled air supply duct and/or a heated air supply duct (not shown), respectively. In this regard, it should be appreciated that environmental control system 148 may generally include a plurality of ducts, dampers, diverter assemblies, and/or air handlers to facilitate operation in a cooling mode, in a heating mode, in both a heating and cooling mode, or any other mode suitable for regulating the environment within grow chamber 122. It should be appreciated that duct system 160 may vary in complexity and may regulate the flows of air from sealed system 150 in any suitable arrangement through any suitable portion of grow chamber 122.

Gardening appliance 100 may include a control panel 170. Control panel 170 includes one or more input selectors 172, such as e.g., knobs, buttons, push buttons, touchscreen interfaces, etc. In addition, input selectors 172 may be used to specify or set various settings of gardening appliance 100, such as e.g., settings associated with operation of sealed system 150. Input selectors 172 may be in communication with a processing device or controller 174. Control signals generated in or by controller 174 operate gardening appliance 100 in response to input selectors 172. Additionally, control panel 170 may include a display 176, such as an indicator light or a screen. Display 176 is communicatively coupled with controller 174 and may display information in response to signals from controller 174. Further, as will be described herein, controller 174 may be communicatively coupled with other components of gardening appliance 100, such as e.g., one or more sensors, motors, or other components.

As used herein, “processing device” or “controller” may refer to one or more microprocessors or semiconductor devices and is not restricted necessarily to a single element. The processing device can be programmed to operate gardening appliance 100. The processing device may include, or be associated with, one or more memory elements (e.g., non-transitory storage media). In some such embodiments, the memory elements include electrically erasable, programmable read only memory (EEPROM). Generally, the memory elements can store information accessible processing device, including instructions that can be executed by processing device. Optionally, the instructions can be software or any set of instructions and/or data that when executed by the processing device, cause the processing device to perform operations.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 1 through 8, gardening appliance 100 generally includes a rotatable carousel, referred to herein as a grow module 200 that is mounted within liner 120, e.g., such that it is within grow chamber 122. As illustrated, grow module 200 includes a central hub 202 that extends along and is rotatable about a central axis 204. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, central axis 204 is parallel to the vertical direction V. However, it should be appreciated that central axis 204 could alternatively extend in any suitable direction, e.g., such as the horizontal direction. In this regard, grow module 200 generally defines an axial direction, i.e., parallel to central axis 204, a radial direction R that extends perpendicular to central axis 204, and a circumferential direction C that extends around central axis 204 (e.g. in a plane perpendicular to central axis 204).

Grow module 200 may further include a plurality of partitions 206 that extend from central hub 202 substantially along the radial direction R. In this manner, grow module 200 defines a plurality of chambers, referred to herein generally by reference numeral 210, by dividing or partitioning grow chamber 122. Referring specifically to a first embodiment of grow module 200 illustrated in FIGS. 1 through 8, grow module 200 includes three partitions 206 to define a first chamber 212, a second chamber 214, and a third chamber 216, which are circumferentially spaced relative to each other. In general, as grow module 200 is rotated within grow chamber 122, the plurality of chambers 210 define substantially separate and distinct growing environments, e.g., for growing plants 124 having different growth needs.

More specifically, partitions 206 may extend from central hub 202 to a location immediately adjacent liner 120. Although partitions 206 are described as extending along the radial direction, it should be appreciated that they need not be entirely radially extending. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, the distal ends of each partition is joined with an adjacent partition using an arcuate wall 218, which is generally used to support plants 124.

Notably, it is desirable according to exemplary embodiments to form a substantial seal between partitions 206 and liner 120. Therefore, according to an exemplary embodiment, grow module 200 may define a grow module diameter 220 (e.g., defined by its substantially circular footprint formed in a horizontal plane). Similarly, enclosed back portion 130 of liner 120 may be substantially cylindrical and may define a liner diameter 222. In order to prevent a significant amount of air from escaping between partitions 206 and liner 120, liner diameter 222 may be substantially equal to or slightly larger than grow module diameter 220.

Referring now specifically to FIG. 3, gardening appliance 100 may further include a motor 230 or another suitable driving element or device for selectively rotating grow module 200 during operation of gardening appliance 100. In this regard, according to the illustrated embodiment, motor 230 is positioned below grow module 200, e.g., within mechanical compartment 140, and is operably coupled to grow module 200 along central axis 204 for rotating grow module 200.

As used herein, “motor” may refer to any suitable drive motor and/or transmission assembly for rotating grow module 200. For example, motor 230 may be a brushless DC electric motor, a stepper motor, or any other suitable type or configuration of motor. For example, motor 230 may be an AC motor, an induction motor, a permanent magnet synchronous motor, or any other suitable type of AC motor. In addition, motor 230 may include any suitable transmission assemblies, clutch mechanisms, or other components.

According to an exemplary embodiment, motor 230 may be operably coupled to controller 174, which is programmed to rotate grow module 200 according to predetermined operating cycles, based on user inputs (e.g. via touch buttons 172), etc. In addition, controller 174 may be communicatively coupled to one or more sensors, such as temperature or humidity sensors, positioned within the various chambers 210 for measuring temperatures and/or humidity, respectively. Controller 174 may then operate motor 230 in order to maintain desired environmental conditions for each of the respective chambers 210. For example, as will be described in more detail below, gardening appliance 100 includes features for providing certain locations of gardening appliance 100 with light, temperature control, proper moisture, nutrients, and other requirements for suitable plant growth. Motor 230 may be used to position specific chambers 210 where needed to receive such growth requirements.

According to an exemplary embodiment, such as where three partitions 206 form three chambers 212-216, controller 174 may operate motor 230 to index grow module 200 sequentially through a number of preselected positions. More specifically, motor 230 may rotate grow module 200 in a counterclockwise direction (e.g. when viewed from a top of grow module 200) in 120° increments to move chambers 210 between sealed positions and display positions. As used herein, a chamber 210 is considered to be in a “sealed position” when that chamber 210 is substantially sealed between grow module 200 (i.e., central hub 202 and adjacent partitions 206) and liner 120. By contrast, a chamber 210 is considered to be in a “display position” when that chamber 210 is at least partially exposed to front display opening 132, such that a user may access plants 124 positioned within that chamber 210.

For example, as illustrated in FIGS. 4 and 5, first chamber 212 and second chamber 214 are both in a sealed position, whereas third chamber 216 is in a display position. As motor 230 rotates grow module 200 by 120 degrees in the counterclockwise direction, second chamber 214 will enter the display position, while first chamber 212 and third chamber 216 will be in the sealed positions. Motor 230 may continue to rotate grow module 200 in such increments to cycle grow chambers 210 between these sealed and display positions.

Referring now generally to FIGS. 4 through 8, grow module 200 will be described in more detail according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. As shown, grow module 200 defines a plurality of apertures 240 which are generally configured for receiving plant pods 242 into an internal root chamber 244. Plant pods 242 generally contain seedlings or other material for growing plants positioned within a mesh or other support structure through which roots of plants 124 may grow within grow module 200. A user may insert a portion of plant pod 242 (e.g., a seed end or root end 246) having the desired seeds through one of the plurality of apertures 240 into root chamber 244. A plant end 248 of the plant pod 242 may remain within grow chamber 210 such that plants 124 may grow from grow module 200 such that they are accessible by a user. In this regard, grow module 200 defines root chamber 244, e.g., within at least one of central hub 202 and the plurality of partitions 206. As will be explained below, water and other nutrients may be supplied to the root end 246 of plant pods 242 within root chamber 244. Notably, apertures 240 may be covered by a flat flapper seal (not shown) to prevent water from escaping root chamber 244 when no plant pod 242 is installed.

As best shown in FIGS. 5 and 7, grow module 200 may further include an internal divider 250 that is positioned within root chamber 244 to divide root chamber 244 into a plurality of root chambers, each of the plurality of root chambers being in fluid communication with one of the plurality of grow chambers 210 through the plurality of apertures 240. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, internal divider 250 may divide root chamber 244 into a first root chamber 252, a second root chamber 254, and a third root chamber 256. According to an exemplary embodiment, first root chamber 252 may provide water and nutrients to plants 124 positioned in the first grow chamber 212, second root chamber 254 may provide water and nutrients to plants 124 positioned in the second grow chamber 214, and third root chamber 256 may provide water and nutrients to plants 124 positioned in the third grow chamber 216. In this manner, environmental control system 148 may control the temperature and/or humidity of each of the plurality of chambers 212-216 and the plurality of root chambers 252-256 independently of each other.

Environmental control system 148 may further include a hydration system 270 which is generally configured for providing water to plants 124 to support their growth. Specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, hydration system 270 generally includes a water supply 272 and misting device 274 (e.g., such as a fine mist spray nozzle or nozzles). For example, water supply 272 may be a reservoir containing water (e.g., distilled water) or may be a direct connection municipal water supply. Misting device 274 may be positioned at a bottom of root chamber 244 and may be configured for charging root chamber 244 with mist for hydrating the roots of plants 124. Alternatively, misting devices 274 may pass through central hub 204 along the vertical direction V and periodically include a nozzle for spraying a mist or water into root chamber 244. Because various plants 124 may require different amounts of water for desired growth, hydration system 270 may alternatively include a plurality of misting devices 274, e.g., all coupled to water supply 272, but being selectively operated to charge each of first root chamber 252, second root chamber 254, and third root chamber 256 independently of each other. As used herein, the term “hydration cycle” is intended generally to refer to the time period or periods during which hydration system 270 is providing liquid into gardening appliance 100, e.g., directly into root chamber 244.

Notably, environmental control system 148 described above is generally configured for regulating the temperature and humidity (e.g., or some other suitable water level quantity or measurement) within one or all of the plurality of chambers 210 and/or root chambers 252-256 independently of each other. In this manner, a versatile and desirable growing environment may be obtained for each and every chamber 210.

Referring now for example to FIGS. 4 and 5, gardening appliance 100 may further include a light assembly 280 which is generally configured for providing light into selected grow chambers 210 to facilitate photosynthesis and growth of plants 124. As shown, light assembly 280 may include a plurality of light sources 282 stacked in an array, e.g., extending along the vertical direction V. For example, light sources 282 may be mounted directly to liner 120 within grow chamber 122, or may alternatively be positioned behind liner 120 such that light is projected through a transparent window or light pipe into grow chamber 122. The position, configuration, and type of light sources 282 described herein are not intended to limit the scope of the present subject matter in any manner.

Light sources 282 may be provided as any suitable number, type, position, and configuration of electrical light source(s), using any suitable light technology and illuminating in any suitable color. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, light source 282 includes one or more light emitting diodes (LEDs), which may each illuminate in a single color (e.g., white LEDs), or which may each illuminate in multiple colors (e.g., multi-color or RGB LEDs) depending on the control signal from controller 174. However, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, light sources 282 may include any other suitable traditional light bulbs or sources, such as halogen bulbs, fluorescent bulbs, incandescent bulbs, glow bars, a fiber light source, etc.

As explained above, light generated from light assembly 280 may result in light pollution within a room where gardening appliance 100 is located. Therefore, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to features for reducing light pollution, or to the blocking of light from light sources 282 through front display opening 132. Specifically, as illustrated, light assembly 280 is positioned only within the enclosed back portion 130 of liner 120 such that only grow chambers 210 which are in a sealed position are exposed to light from light sources 282. Specifically, grow module 200 acts as a physical partition between light assemblies 280 and front display opening 132. In this manner, as illustrated in FIG. 5, no light may pass from first chamber 212 or second chamber 214 through grow module 200 and out front display opening 132. As grow module 200 rotates, two of the three grow chambers 210 will receive light from light assembly 280 at a time. According still other embodiments, a single light assembly may be used to reduce costs, whereby only a single grow chamber 210 will be lit at a single time.

Gardening appliance 100 and grow module 200 have been described above to explain an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. However, it should be appreciated that variations and modifications may be made while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. For example, according to alternative embodiments, gardening appliance 100 may be a simplified to a two-chamber embodiment with a square liner 120 and a grow module 200 having two partitions 206 extending from opposite sides of central hub 202 to define a first grow chamber and a second grow chamber. According to such an embodiment, by rotating grow module 200 by 180 degrees about central axis 206, the first chamber may alternate between the sealed position (e.g., facing rear side 114 of cabinet 102) and the display position (e.g., facing front side 112 of cabinet 102). By contrast, the same rotation will move the second chamber from the display position to the sealed position.

According to still other embodiments, gardening appliance 100 may include a three chamber grow module 200 but may have a modified cabinet 102 such that front display opening 132 is wider and two of the three grow chambers 210 are displayed at a single time. Thus, first chamber 212 may be in the sealed position, while second chamber 214 and third chamber 216 may be in the display positions. As grow module 200 is rotated counterclockwise, first chamber 212 is moved into the display position and third chamber 216 is moved into the sealed position.

Referring now again to FIG. 8, aspects of environmental control system 148 are illustrated schematically and will be described according to an exemplary embodiment of the present subject matter. Specifically, as shown, environmental control system 148 includes an air circulation system 300 that is generally configured for providing a flow of air (e.g., identified generally herein by reference numeral 302) into and throughout gardening appliance 100, e.g., such as directly into root chamber 244. Although one exemplary air circulation system 300 is illustrated and described herein, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments any other suitable system of ducts, fans, flow control devices, and other features may be used. In addition, it should be appreciated that the flow of air 302 may include any suitable combination of gases at any suitable concentrations.

As shown in FIG. 8, air circulation system 300 includes a supply duct 310 and an outlet duct 312 that are in fluid communication with grow chamber 122. More specifically, according to the illustrated embodiment, supply duct 310 and outlet duct 312 are directly fluidly coupled to a bottom of root chamber 244. In this manner, air circulation system 300 may circulate flow of air 302 through root chamber 244 using ducts 310, 312 in order to maintain desired temperatures within gardening appliance 100. It should be appreciated that air circulation system 300 may include any suitable number, type, position, and configuration of flow regulating devices to control the flow of air 302. For example, according to the illustrated embodiment, air circulation system 300 includes a supply damper 314 that is operably coupled with supply duct 310 for regulating the flow of air 302 through supply duct 310. Similarly, air circulation system 300 includes an outlet damper 316 that is operably coupled to outlet duct 312 for regulating the flow of air 302 through outlet duct 312. Although two dampers are illustrated, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, only a single damper or other flow control means may be used.

Air circulation assembly 300 may further include a fan assembly or a circulation fan 320 that is in fluid communication with grow chamber 122 through one or both of supply duct 310 and outlet duct 312. In this manner, controller 174 may selectively operate circulation fan 320 to circulate the flow of air 302 throughout root chamber 244. In general, the circulation fan 320 may be any flow regulating device that is configured for recirculating or urging a flow of air. For example, the circulation fan 320 may include one or more axial fans, centrifugal fans, etc. In addition, the circulation fan 320 may be positioned at any suitable location on or in ducts 310, 312 or otherwise in fluid communication with grow chamber 122. In addition, as shown in FIG. 8, outlet duct 312 fluidly couples root chamber 244 to an ambient environment 322, e.g., for discharging the flow of air 302. However, according to alternative embodiments, air circulation system 300 may include a duct system and flow regulating features for recirculating, filtering, treating, and/or reusing the flow of air 302.

Referring still to FIG. 8, gardening appliance 100 may include one or more devices or subsystems for monitoring moisture levels or water content within grow chamber 122. For example, as illustrated, gardening appliance 100 includes a water detection device 340 that is positioned within root chamber 244 for measuring a moisture level within root chamber 244. For example, according to an exemplary embodiment, water detection device 340 comprises one or more optical sensors 342 positioned at different locations within root chamber 244. In general, optical sensors 342 may transmit and receive a beam of light energy 344 in order to determine the amount of water within root chamber 244, e.g., based on distortion of the beam of light energy 344. Although an optical sensor is described herein, it should be appreciated that according to alternative embodiments, any suitable humidity sensors or other moisture detection systems and methods may be used while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter.

Now that the construction of gardening appliance 100 has been described, an exemplary method 400 of operating a gardening appliance will be described. Although the discussion below refers to the exemplary method 400 of operating gardening appliance 100, one skilled in the art will appreciate that the exemplary method 400 is applicable to the operation of a variety of other gardening appliances or for use in any suitable application. In exemplary embodiments, the various method steps as disclosed herein may be performed by controller 174 or a separate, dedicated controller.

Notably, as explained briefly above, during a hydration cycle, hydration system 270 provides a mist or flow of liquid into root chamber 244. After the spray nozzles finish discharging water, small droplets of water gently flow through root chamber 244. These droplets are slowly deposited onto the roots and walls to hydrate the roots of plants 124. However, if air from air circulation system 300 is provided into root chamber 244 during these periods of high droplet density, the droplets may fail to reach the roots of plants 124 effectively. For example, FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary hydration cycle of gardening appliance 100, with a measure of the amount of water in the air illustrated by reference numeral 350. As shown, at a start time 352 of hydration cycle, hydration system 270 provides a flow of water to nozzles or misting devices within root chamber 244. As a result, the droplet density or water level percentage profile 350 may increase quickly until an end time 354 of the hydration cycle. After hydration system 270 stops providing liquid into root chamber 244, the water level 350 slowly decays. Therefore, as explained below, aspects of the present subject matter are directed to a system and method for regulating airflow in order to reduce negative effects on the hydration cycle.

Referring now to FIG. 10, method 400 includes, at step 410, operating an air circulation system to urge the flow of air through a root chamber of a gardening appliance. In this regard, air circulation system 300 may urge the flow of air 302 through root chamber 244, e.g., to maintain desired temperatures within root chamber 244. However, as explained below, method 400 may generally include stopping the flow of air during the hydration cycle. The amount of time that the flow of air is stopped may depend in part on the water levels 350 or may be time-based, e.g., such that air circulation system 300 is operated based at least in part on the operation of hydration system 270 (e.g., based on start and stop times of the hydration system 270).

For example, method 400 may include stopping the flow of air slightly before the start of the hydration cycle and preventing the flow of air for a certain duration after the end of the hydration cycle. It should be appreciated that air circulation system 300 may include any suitable means for stopping or slowing the flow of air 302. For example, the flow of air 302 may be stopped by closing supply damper 314, closing outlet damper 316, and/or stopping circulation fan 320. Thus, step 420 includes stopping the flow of air prior to commencement of a hydration cycle. For example, referring briefly to FIG. 9, the air stop time 356 of the flow of air may be a first predetermined amount of time 358 before start time 352 of the hydration cycle. Step 430 includes implementing the hydration cycle by using a hydration system to provide a flow of liquid into the root chamber.

Step 440 may include preventing the flow of air until after the hydration cycle has ended. According to an exemplary embodiment, the flow of air may not commence until an air start time 360, which may be after a second predetermined amount of time 362 has passed since the end time 354 of the hydration cycle. Thus, according to an exemplary embodiment, stopping the flow of air at 420 and preventing the flow of air at 440 may include determining a start time and an end time of a hydration cycle. From the start time and the end time of the hydration cycle, an air stop time 356 and an air start time 360 may be determined. It should be appreciated that during the time between air stop time 356 and air start time 360, air circulation system 300 prevents the flow of air 302 through root chamber 244. Outside of this no flow period, air may or may not be supplied depending on commands of an environmental control system 148, e.g., based on the temperature within root chamber 244.

It should be appreciated that the first predetermined amount of time 358 and the second predetermined amount of time 362 may be set by the manufacturer, selected by the user, may be determined empirically, or may be calculated using controller 174. In addition, these times 358, 362 may vary depending on a variety of factors, such as nozzle flow rates, chamber humidity, air flow rates, or any other suitable factors. For example, the first predetermined amount of time 358 is generally selected to be a suitable amount of time to permit air currents within grow chamber 244 to dissipate below a threshold. For example, the first predetermined amount of time 358 may be between about 0.1 seconds and 20 seconds, between about 0.5 seconds and 10 seconds, between about 1 second and 4 seconds, or about 3 seconds. In addition, the second predetermined amount of time 362 may be determined based at least in part on the decay of water level 350, e.g., how long it takes water level 350 to drop below a suitable threshold. For example, the second predetermined amount of time 362 may be between about 1 second and 60 seconds, between about 5 seconds and 30 seconds, between about 10 seconds and 20 seconds, or about 15 seconds.

According to exemplary embodiments, stopping the flow of air and preventing the flow of air may include regulating airflow based on a moisture level or water level within root chamber 244. For example, controller 174 may measure a moisture level (e.g., water level 350) using water detection device 340. The air stop time 356 and/or the air start time 360 may be determined based on this water level 350. For example, if the water level 350 drops below a predetermined water level threshold (e.g., as identified by reference numeral 364), the flow of air may be resupplied to root chamber 244. It should be appreciated that the water level threshold may vary according to the particular application while remaining within the scope of the present subject matter. In addition, it should be appreciated that other factors and considerations may affect the air stop time 356 and the air start time 360.

FIG. 10 depicts steps performed in a particular order for purposes of illustration and discussion. Those of ordinary skill in the art, using the disclosures provided herein, will understand that the steps of any of the methods discussed herein can be adapted, rearranged, expanded, omitted, or modified in various ways without deviating from the scope of the present disclosure. Moreover, although aspects of method 400 are explained using gardening appliance 100 as an example, it should be appreciated that these methods may be applied to the operation of any suitable gardening appliance.

This written description uses examples to disclose the invention, including the best mode, and also to enable any person skilled in the art to practice the invention, including making and using any devices or systems and performing any incorporated methods. The patentable scope of the invention is defined by the claims, and may include other examples that occur to those skilled in the art. Such other examples are intended to be within the scope of the claims if they include structural elements that do not differ from the literal language of the claims, or if they include equivalent structural elements with insubstantial differences from the literal languages of the claims.

Claims

1. A gardening appliance, comprising: a liner positioned within a cabinet and defining a grow chamber;a grow module mounted within the liner and defining a root chamber;a plurality of apertures defined through the grow module for receiving one or more plant pods that extend into the root chamber;a hydration system for selectively implementing a hydration cycle to provide a flow of liquid into the root chamber;an air circulation system fluidly coupled to the root chamber for urging a flow of air through the root chamber, wherein the air circulation system comprises a supply duct in fluid communication with the grow chamber, and an outlet duct separate from the supply duct in fluid communication with the grow chamber; anda controller in operative communication with the hydration system and the air circulation system, the controller being configured to:determine a start time of the hydration cycle when the hydration system provides the flow of liquid into the root chamber; andstop operation of the air circulation assembly to stop the flow of air prior to the start time of the hydration cycle.

2. The gardening appliance of claim 1, wherein stopping the flow of air comprises: determining an end time of the hydration cycle;stopping the flow of air after a first predetermined amount of time before the start time of the hydration cycle; andpreventing the flow of air until a second predetermined amount of time has passed since the end time of the hydration cycle.

3. The gardening appliance of claim 2, wherein the first predetermined amount of time is between about 0.5 seconds and 10 seconds.

4. The gardening appliance of claim 2, wherein the second predetermined amount of time is between about 5 seconds and 30 seconds.

5. The gardening appliance of claim 1, further comprising a water detection device for measuring a moisture level within the grow chamber or the root chamber, wherein stopping the flow of air during the hydration cycle comprises: measuring the moisture level; andpreventing the flow of air if the moisture level exceeds a threshold moisture level.

6. The gardening appliance of claim 5, wherein the water detection device is an optical sensor.

7. The gardening appliance of claim 5, wherein the water detection device comprises a plurality of sensors positioned at different locations within the root chamber.

8. The gardening appliance of claim 1, wherein the air circulation system comprises: a supply damper operably coupled with the supply duct for regulating the flow of air, wherein stopping the flow of air comprises closing the supply damper.

9. The gardening appliance of claim 8, wherein the air circulation system comprises: an outlet damper operably coupled with the outlet duct for regulating the flow of air, wherein stopping the flow of air comprises closing the outlet damper.

10. The gardening appliance of claim 1, wherein the air circulation system comprises: a circulation fan in fluid communication with the grow chamber, wherein stopping the flow of air comprises stopping the circulation fan.