Growing Closer Aeroponic System

Abstract

The Growing Closer Aeroponic System is designed to grow a large number of plants using less water, space, and energy than conventional farming methods. The designed system incorporates an effective water recycling process and new-to-market low power consumption LED lighting, which can be custom tuned to emit specific, exact wave- lengths (400 - 700nm) needed to promote the growth of any particular plant. Further, the ingenious shape and sizing of the proof of concept growing cone allows for high packing density and movement of plants that is not found in current rotary hydro- ponic systems. While the idea of rotation around a light source in a hydroponic system is not unique, the conveyor system, cone shape, sizing, and modularity are completely unique to the industry. This deliberate design is meant to significantly reduce the customary need for manual intervention in spacing adjustments during growth. Aeroponic misting in rotation systems appears to be an uncommon feature as well. The special design will allow for 96 plants to be grown with fewer inputs, and is engineered to reduce the capital intensive cost of equipment, since another obstacle in current hydroponic systems is the initial capital expense of the system itself. The Growing Closer system allows plants to be grown successfully in any space in the world, from a building in the Sahara Desert, to the International Space Station, to a space near a grocery store in your home town, thus providing living plants and fresh, local produce for all.