BR-202024018212-U2 - Configuration applied to a multi-purpose gutter for fertigation cultivation.

Abstract

This utility model patent document describes an innovative multi-purpose trough (1) for fertigation cultivation systems, designed to offer versatility in supporting both pots and slabs (bags with substrates). The trough (1) has a reinforced profile with multiple folds and creases with three main sections (10) that form three channels (11) for efficient drainage of the nutrient solution, preventing liquid accumulation and promoting a healthier growing environment, and two raised flat sections (12) to provide two flat support areas. In addition, a lid (2) with a flat base (22) is mounted on the trough (1), facilitating the placement of the slabs, while circular openings (23) in the lid (2) are designed to securely accommodate pots. The ends of the side walls of the trough (1) have interlocking profiles (13) that ensure a firm and stable fit of the lid (2) by means of its edges (21). The proposed configuration provides an efficient, lightweight, and durable solution, ideal for cultivation in controlled environments, allowing for easy installation and maintenance, as well as optimizing the use of water and nutrients.

Inventors

• Roni Da Silveira
• DANILO MARTINS DA ROSA

Assignees

• TECNOPERFIL PLÁSTICOS LTDA

Dates

Publication Date

20260317

Application Date

20240904

Claims (2)

1. 1. “CONFIGURATION APPLIED IN MULTI-PURPOSE TROUGH FOR FERTIGATION CULTIVATION” comprising a trough (1) with a top (2) mounted on the trough (1) characterized by: - the trough (1) having a profile with three main sections (10), each composed of a sequence of folds and creases, forming recesses that constitute three channels (11) along the length of the trough (1), and two raised flat sections (12) so as to form two flat support areas; - and the upper ends of each of the side walls of the trough (1) having a fitting (13) consisting of a flange that aligns perfectly with the edges of the top (2), specially developed to be mounted on said trough (1); - and the top (2) having a design with edges (21) that fit perfectly into the fitting profile (13) of the longitudinal side walls of the trough (1), and having a central part consisting of a flat base (22) that extends along the entire width of the trough (1), so as to accommodate the slabs, and also providing circular openings (23) designed to accommodate the pots; - and in the lower part of the top (2), having longitudinal reinforcements (24), which rest on the raised sections (12); - and providing end caps (3) arranged at each end of the trough (1), containing, at least in one of said end caps (3), a pipe (31), so as to allow connection with the piping for the disposal of the nutrient solution.
2. 2. “CONFIGURATION APPLIED IN MULTI-PURPOSE GUTTER FOR FERTIGATION CULTIVATION”, according to claim 1, characterized by optionally having junctions (4) provided, so as to allow the joining of a plurality of gutters (1).

Description

[001] The present utility model describes a configuration for a fertigation cultivation trough, whose main advantage is to make it multi-purpose, both for cultivation using pots, or using the slab (bag) technique, prioritizing structural rigidity and load distribution. [002] Fertigation is an agricultural technique that combines irrigation and fertilization in a single process. In this method, water-soluble fertilizers are added to the irrigation water to form an aqueous solution, and then applied directly to the plants through the irrigation system. This allows for a more efficient and uniform distribution of nutrients directly to the plant roots, optimizing the use of water and fertilizers. [003] This technique is widely used in crops that demand high resource use efficiency, such as vegetables, fruits, flowers, and even extensive crops. Fertigation allows farmers to adjust nutrient dosage according to the specific needs of plants at different growth stages, improving productivity and crop quality. In addition, it helps reduce environmental impact by minimizing fertilizer waste and leaching into the soil. [004] For this type of cultivation, two techniques are normally used: cultivation by pots, or cultivation by slabs. [005] In pot cultivation, plants are grown in individual containers (pots), which can be made of plastic, clay, or other materials; these pots contain a substrate (such as peat, coconut fiber, perlite, or specialized mixtures) that serves as a growing medium for the roots; fertigation is applied directly to the substrate in the pot. [006] In slab cultivation (or slab growing) plants are grown in substrates packed in bags; these slabs are placed on a flat surface or inside troughs, and the plants are inserted directly into the slab (bag). [007] Both techniques are efficient in terms of water and nutrient use, making them ideal for intensive cultivation in controlled environments, where fertigation plays a crucial role in optimizing plant growth and productivity. However, in some cases, one technique is preferable to the other. [008] A fertigation cultivation trough is a support structure, usually made of plastic or metal, designed to hold slabs or pots in these types of cultivation. These troughs are positioned in a way that allows drainage and collection of excess nutrient solution applied during fertigation. They help ensure that the plant substrate remains adequately irrigated and nourished, while excess water is removed, preventing waterlogging and promoting a healthy root environment. [009] In the state of the art, document BR 202021008202-5 can be cited, which shows a universal trough for fertigation cultivation systems, developed to support pots and/or slabs (bags with substrate) in which, according to its description, the difference lies in its integrated drainage system, which collects and reuses excess nutrient solution, avoiding waste and soil contamination, especially of the water table. However, its constructive configuration does not prioritize the balance and structural rigidity of the trough, nor does it optimize the efficient distribution of loads; similarly, it presents deficiencies regarding drainage. [010] Still in the state of the art, we can cite the Mexican document MX2018009561 which describes a trough for cultivation, however the structure disclosed in this document comprises too many channels as well as not having a flat elevation for adequate support of the pot or slabs. [011] The object of this utility model patent document is to present a constructive configuration applied to a fertigation trough that provides its versatility of use both to support pots and slabs. On the body of the trough is arranged a support base with a flat surface, with circular openings; the flat base facilitates the placement of slabs, and the circular openings facilitate the placement of pots. [012] The applied configuration provides a multi-purpose alternative for the user, without compromising the characteristics of structural rigidity, flow efficiency, and weight reduction. [013] With regard to structural rigidity, the developed configuration presents a profile with several folds forming horizontal support bases, which generally increases structural rigidity and allows the channel to better support external loads, both for the use of vessels and for the use of slabs, without promoting deformations. [014] With regard to flow efficiency, the multi-channel (or recessed) design facilitates efficient flow of the nutrient solution, minimizing liquid stagnation and promoting better direction to the collection system. [015] With regard to weight reduction: the folds forming the horizontal support bases also contribute to reducing the walls of the gutter, resulting in a reduction in the total weight of the gutter, which can be advantageous in terms of handling and installation, without significantly compromising strength; the longitudinal reinforcements present in the top also contribute to wei