Method and apparatus for irradiation of plants using optoelectronic devices
First Claim
1. A method for providing radiant energy to support plant growth and development comprising the step of:
- exposing a plant to radiant energy provided by an array of light emitting diodes having a maximum spectral emission that matches the maximum absorption of chlorophyll and meets the photomorphogenic and phototropic requirements of a plant at a sufficient intensity and duration to drive photosynthesis at a rate sufficient to support plant growth and development from germination to maturity.
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Abstract
Disclosed are a method and an apparatus for irradiation of plants using optoelectronic devices. In accordance with this invention, optoelectronic devices that emit radiant energy at the appropriate wavelength are operated in a continuous mode or pulsed asymmetrically at a frequency and level of electrical power that results in sufficient irradiance to support plant growth and development. The apparatus consists of: (1) an array of optoelectronic devices, primarily light emitting diodes, for producing irradiance in each of three different wavelength regions necessary for specific plant photobiological reactions, (2) a pulse generator and associated electric power driving components, and (3) an electric direct current (D.C.) power supply.
201 Citations
15 Claims
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1. A method for providing radiant energy to support plant growth and development comprising the step of:
exposing a plant to radiant energy provided by an array of light emitting diodes having a maximum spectral emission that matches the maximum absorption of chlorophyll and meets the photomorphogenic and phototropic requirements of a plant at a sufficient intensity and duration to drive photosynthesis at a rate sufficient to support plant growth and development from germination to maturity. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7)
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8. An apparatus for providing radiant energy for plant growth and development comprising:
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an array of light emitting diodes including first light emitting diode means having a peak emission in the 620 to 680 nm spectral region, second light emitting diode means having a peak emission in the 700 to 760 nm spectral region, and third light emitting diode means having a peak emission in the 400 nm to 500 nm spectral region, a source of electric current; and control means for controlling said electric current to said light emitting diode means so as to pulse said light emitting diode means for a desired time duration; and
, means for positioning plants in proximity to said array of light emitting diodes. - View Dependent Claims (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15)
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Specification