Apparatus for high density, automated cultivation

摘要

Apparatus for growing plants comprises an annular or circular growing surface, rotatable about an axis perpendicular to the growing surface with means to move the plants relative to the growing surface. Preferably, the environmental conditions can be varied according to radial distance and angular position. Rotation may be performed automatically. Preferably the growing surface is divided into multiple growing trays 701, the floor of each forming a segment of the growing surface. Multiple growing surfaces may be stacked vertically. The apparatus may feature a transparent surface, light sources supported by a mesh and/or a central air duct that may have vets to control the rate of airflow. Sensing apparatus and/or manipulating devices may be attached to a beam that radially spans the growing area, the apparatus and devices preferably capable of moving along the beams. The plants may be held above the growing surface in a carrier.