DESC:FORM 2
THE PATENTS ACT, 1970
(39 OF 1970)
&
THE PATENTS RULES, 2003
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
(See section 10 and rule 13)
1. Title of the invention: “PROTECTED FARM AUTOMATION, CONTROL AND MANAGEMENT SYSTEM”
2. Applicant:
NAME NATIONALITY ADDRESS
Growloc LLP Indian Growloc LLP, 2nd Floor, BHAU Institute, COEP, Shivaji Nagar, Pune - 411005
Email:
shanu@growloc.com
sanket@growloc.com
chothani18preeti@gmail.com
(M) +9879740982
3. Preamble to the description
COMPLETE SPECIFICATION
The following specification particularly describes the invention and the manner in which it is to be performed:

Field of the Invention:
The present invention relates to the field of agritech (technology in agriculture), specifically focused on the development of a protected farm automation, control, and management system. The present invention aims to automate day-to-day operations of protected farms while helping farm managers/owners optimize farm output using IoT sensors, an enterprise resource planning (ERP) system, and artificial intelligence (AI).
Background of the Invention:
The agricultural sector is a fundamental pillar of global food production and supply, catering to the increasing demands of a growing population. The world's population continues to grow, placing increased demands on the agriculture industry to produce higher yields and ensure food security. However, traditional farming methods face various challenges such as unpredictable weather conditions, limited resources, and the need for efficient management practices. Traditional farming methods often face challenges in optimizing crop growth, managing farm operations, and achieving economic viability. In recent years, there has been a growing demand for innovative solutions that can optimize farm operations and maximize productivity while minimizing resource consumption.
A protected farm refers to agricultural operations that are carried out within controlled environments, such as greenhouses, polyhouses, or vertical farms. These environments provide protection from adverse weather conditions, pests, and other external factors, enabling farmers to cultivate crops with enhanced precision and consistency. However, managing such farms requires careful attention to various factors, including temperature, humidity, irrigation, lighting, and pest control.
In response to these challenges, technological advancements have become crucial in transforming traditional farming practices into efficient, automated, and sustainable systems. To overcome these challenges, the invention proposes a comprehensive system that integrates control hardware, IoT sensors, an ERP system, and AI algorithms to revolutionize farming practices. The present invention represents a groundbreaking development in the agritech field, focusing specifically on the creation of a Protected Farm Automation, Control, and Management System.
This invention harnesses the power of programmable control hardware, Internet of Things (IoT) technology, sensors, enterprise resource planning (ERP), and artificial intelligence (AI) to revolutionize the way farms are operated and managed. By leveraging these advanced technologies, the invention aims to enhance crop growth, streamline farm operations, and improve overall farm output.
In summary, the protected farm automation, control, and management system presented in this invention leverage PLC, IoT, sensors, ERP, and AI technologies to revolutionize the way farms are operated and managed. By automating farm operations, optimizing growing conditions, and providing a comprehensive management platform, the invention aims to enhance crop productivity, streamline farm operations, and contribute to the sustainable and efficient growth of the agriculture industry.
Object of the Invention:
Main objective of the present invention is to automate the operations of protected farms, reducing manual effort and increasing efficiency.
Another objective of the present invention is to automate the day-to-day operations of a protected farm using IoT sensors and industrial automation systems.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to reduce manual labor, streamline processes, and improve overall farm efficiency.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to optimize the growing conditions of crops to achieve maximum output and quality by utilizing IoT sensors, an AI-powered ERP system, and data analysis.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to use this product across farms of all sizes and allows farm owners/managers to manage and optimize multiple farms simultaneously.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to optimize the output of the farm by using AI algorithms and data from various sensors to control and adjust farm parameters such as temperature, humidity, irrigation, pH, and more.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to leverage IoT and sensor-based technology to collect and analyze data from multiple sources, including local weather parameters. This data-driven approach enables informed decision-making and enhances precision farming practices.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to ERP system enables the farm to plan and estimate produce according to market requirements. This integration with market demand reduces produce wastage and ensures efficient sales, benefiting both farmers and consumers.
Yet another objective of the present invention is to focus on economics and optimization of farm output is intended to increase farmer income. By improving yields and reducing wastage, farmers can generate more revenue from their crops.
Summary of the Invention:
The present invention relates to a protected farm automation, control, and management system that utilizes programmable hardware, IoT (Internet of Things) sensors, industrial automation, and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms to automate day-to-day operations and optimize output in protected farming environments. The invention is an IoT-based industrial automation system designed to automate operations at protected farms while optimizing crop growth conditions using sensors and artificial intelligence (AI). The system incorporates an AI-powered Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system to manage day-to-day activities, track crop growth, and optimize farm output. It is suitable for farms of all sizes and can be used across multiple farms simultaneously.
The invention utilizes industrial programmable logic controllers (PLCs) and IoT-based hardware systems, coupled with a wide range of sensors including temperature, humidity, pH, electrical conductivity, water temperature, light, CO2, moisture, dissolved oxygen, water flow, and air flow sensors. The system continuously monitors and controls various farm parameters to maintain optimal conditions for different crops.
At the front end, the invention includes a Farm ERP system that allows farm owners, managers, agronomists, and laborers to interact and collaborate efficiently. The ERP system provides zone-wise tracking of crop lifecycles, daily labor activities, maintenance, inventory, and economics. Different user roles are assigned, including a super user (farm owner) with access to all farm profiles, farm managers with access to assigned farms, agronomists acting as plant experts, and laborers with limited access. The platform also incorporates WhatsApp and SMS integration for easy communication. The collected data from sensors and user inputs is analyzed using AI algorithms to suggest and enhance farm conditions for maximum output. The system aims to standardize produce quality and quantity across various farms, bridge the gap between market demand and produce, and optimize yields by implementing predictive analysis and AI-based control parameters.
The invention addresses the challenges of traditional farming methods by using IoT, AI, and sensor-based technologies. It reduces water consumption by up to 95% compared to traditional methods, offers higher crop quality and yield, facilitates farming in urban areas, and provides a sustainable solution for feeding the growing population. The system also aims to enhance farmer income through economic optimization and rapid innovation in supported crops.
In conclusion, the invention presents a comprehensive and innovative approach to farm automation, control, and management. It leverages modern technologies and data-driven practices to optimize crop growth conditions, streamline farm operations, and enable efficient decision-making. The invention's potential benefits include increased productivity, reduced resource consumption, improved market integration, and enhanced economic outcomes for farmers.
Brief Description of drawings:

Figure 1 shows block diagram of Farm Automation-Sensor Location
Figure 2 (a) shows Control Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 2 (b) shows Control Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 3 (a) shows Power Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 3 (b) shows Power Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 4 (a) shows Digital Input Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 4 (b) shows Digital Output Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 5 shows Analog Input Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 6 shows Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 7 shows Terminal Detail Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit
Figure 8 shows Farm Automation-Sensor 1
Figure 9 shows Farm Automation-Sensor system
Figure 10 shows Farm Automation-Sensor 2
Figure 11 shows Peristaltic pump of the present system

Detailed Description of the Invention:
Various aspects of the present invention will be described in detail in connection with the accompanying drawings, in order to provide a better understanding of the present invention.
The protected farm automation, control, and management system presented herein is designed to revolutionize the agricultural sector by automating day-to-day operations and optimizing farm output. This system is applicable in the field of Agritech and aims to provide an efficient and scalable solution for farms of all sizes. The primary objective of the invention is to automate various tasks associated with farm management while enabling the farm manager or owner to optimize crop growth and output using a combination of IoT sensors, an Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) system, and artificial intelligence (AI).
The Farm Automation System presented here is a standard product designed for efficient control and management of agricultural operations. The system consists of various components and sensors that are essential for optimizing farm conditions and ensuring the growth of crops.
The Control Unit, powered by a Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), is responsible for managing the irrigation system. It includes a Water Dosing Unit that is required in a quantity of one for every 40,000 square feet of farm area. The PLC Unit is located within the farm, under shade, near the water source. Additionally, five AI units are incorporated into the system for advanced data analysis and decision-making. The system utilizes multiple sensors provided by various vendors, including sensors for pH, electrical conductivity/TDS, dissolved oxygen (add-on sensor), water temperature, water flow, and others. These sensors are crucial for monitoring and controlling various parameters essential for optimal crop growth.
To facilitate the operation of the system, digital input/output and relay output units are included. The system also requires auxiliary power supply and wired connectivity with the PLC Unit. In addition to the Control Unit, there is a separate Relay Panel with a controller that is needed for every 40,000 square feet of farm area or within the polyhouse. This panel includes digital input/output and relay output units, as well as an energy meter with CTs for monitoring power consumption.
For climate control within the farm, a Climate Unit is deployed. It includes sensors for air temperature, humidity, CO2, light intensity (lux or PAR), moisture probe, air flow, and NPK (nutrient levels). Connectivity with the PLC Unit is wired, and the unit is located in the farm, under shade, potentially in the central area. The Farm Automation System is designed to streamline farming operations and optimize crop growth by utilizing advanced technology, such as PLCs, sensors, and AI. By monitoring and controlling various environmental factors, the system ensures that crops receive the ideal conditions for their growth.
At its core, the system is built on industrial Programmable Logic Controllers (PLCs) and IoT-based hardware. It utilizes an array of sensors to continuously monitor critical parameters affecting crop growth, including temperature, humidity, pH, electrical conductivity (EC), water temperature, light intensity, CO2 levels, moisture, dissolved oxygen, water flow, and air flow. The collected data from these sensors forms the foundation for the AI-powered decision-making process. The system employs AI algorithms to analyze the sensor data and suggest appropriate actions to optimize farm conditions for maximum crop output. This includes maintaining the ideal temperature and humidity levels, regulating irrigation and nutrient supply, and adjusting other parameters specific to the crops being cultivated. The AI-powered ERP is integrated into the system, enabling seamless management of day-to-day farm activities and tracking the growth progress of crops. This feature facilitates informed decision-making by the farm manager or owner.
Main embodiment of the present invention is a protected farm automation, control and management system for Irrigation and climate control comprising of:
a) Industrial programmable Logic control (PLC) panel is responsible for managing the irrigation system;
b) Internet of Things (IoT);
c) Sensors for monitoring and controlling of pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, water temperature, water flow, temperature, humidity, CO2, light intensity, moisture, air flow, and nutrient levels;
d) Peristatic pump and stepper motor driver cards;
e) WhatsApp and SMS integration for easy communication; and
f) Power supply and SMPS;
g) Relay cards of 20A and 10A;
h) Control, power, Digital input and output, analogue input wiring of the PLC control panel;
i) Terminals of PLC control panel;
j) HMI consist of 7” touch screen;
k) Enterprise resource planning (ERP); and
l) Artificial intelligence (AI) incorporated into the system for advanced data analysis and decision-making;
Wherein said system is located in the central area of farm and under shade.
Another embodiment of the present invention is said system optimize farm operations and maximize productivity with minimun resource consumption.
Another embodiment of the present invention is said temperature sensor senses temperature of 0 to 50 degree centigrade.
Another embodiment of the present invention is said humidity sensor senses 0 to 100% humidity.
Another embodiment of the present invention is said sensors operated at 4 to 20 mA.
Another embodiment of the present invention is said peristaltic pump attached with driver card with panel perminals selected from blue (A+), red (A-), black (B+) and green (B-).
Another embodiment of the present invention is said power supply of 230 VAC.
The invention offers flexibility by allowing integration across multiple farms, thereby maximizing the overall output and economic benefits for the owner. It can be used for various protected farming techniques, including hydroponics and aquaponics.
The Farm ERP system is designed with various user roles to ensure efficient collaboration among stakeholders. The Farm Owner serves as the super user, having access to all farm profiles. Farm Managers have access to farms assigned to them, enabling them to track farm status, manage activities, and assign tasks. Agronomists play a critical role as farm plant experts, guiding the manager for crop management and optimization. They can monitor farm conditions and provide suggestions for improving crop health and productivity. Laborers, being low-access users, can monitor farm conditions, interact with assigned tasks, and post updates. Communication among users is facilitated through WhatsApp and SMS integration, ensuring effective and convenient exchange of information.
Figure 1 illustrate block diagram of the present system.
Figure 2 (a) and (b) illustrate the Control Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing Unit. It shows wired connection in between all components of PLC control panel with detailed specifications. For HMI and IoT and DI and driver card of peristaltic pump, 24 VDC used. The relay cards of 20A and 10A in quantity of 4 used. The componenets connected to SMPS to avoid voltage fluctuation in the system.The HMI consist of 7” touch screen which attached with IoT, PLC and I/O module.
Figure 3 (a) and (b) illustrate Power Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit. It shows wired connection in between all components of PLC control panel with detailed specifications of Fogger pump and air blower. Number of air circulation fans of 0.25 HP/1Ø and 2.3A used. The power supply of 230 VAC used.
Figure 4 (a) and (b) illustrate Digital Input and output Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit. It shows detailed connection and specifications of Fogger pump, irrigation (through) pump, air blower, Bubbling unit and different groups of air circulation fan.
Figure 5 illustrate Analog Input Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit. It shows specifications for various sensors such as farm air temperature, farm humidity sensor, electrical conductivity, pH, CO2, and water temperature sensor. All sensors work on 4 to 20 mA. The temperature sensor senses temperature 0 to 50 degree centigrade and humidity sensor senses humidity 0-100%.
Figure 6 illustrate Wiring Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit. It shows connection between PLC and EC peristaltic stepper motor driver card 1, 2 and 3. PLC connected with card 1 by connector pin 7 (7/8/9 pins internally Short) and 1. PLC and card 2 connected with connector pin 2. PLC and card 3 connected with connector pin 3. The connector pin has 5.08 mm pitch.
Figure 7 illustrate Terminal Detail Dwg of PLC Control Panel For Irrigation and Climate Control With IoT for AWS Cloud Connectivity (MQTT) With Dosing unit. It shows connections for whole internal system.
The collected data from sensors, combined with AI analysis and recommendations, is used to suggest and enhance farm conditions, ultimately maximizing the output and quality of the produce. The system aims to achieve standardized produce quality and quantity across different farms, bridging the gap between market demand and available produce. It also focuses on optimizing yield through predictive analysis and AI-based control parameters.
The benefits of implementing the protected farm automation, control, and management system are significant. By automating and optimizing farm operations, the system reduces water consumption, increases crop quality and yield, integrates urban farming practices, and provides a sustainable solution for feeding the growing population. Moreover, the system prioritizes economic optimization, leading to enhanced income for farmers. It also fosters rapid innovation in supported crops, allowing for the introduction of new plant varieties and experimentation to achieve optimum growing conditions.
In conclusion, the protected farm automation, control, and management system described herein offer a comprehensive and innovative approach to modernize and optimize farming practices. It holds immense potential for increasing productivity, improving economic outcomes for farmers, and addressing the global challenges of food security and sustainability. ,CLAIMS:We claim,
1. A protected farm automation, control and management system for Irrigation and climate control comprising of:
a) Industrial programmable Logic control (PLC) panel is responsible for managing the irrigation system;
b) Internet of Things (IoT);
c) Sensors for monitoring and controlling of pH, electrical conductivity, dissolved oxygen, water temperature, water flow, temperature, humidity, CO2, light intensity, moisture, air flow, and nutrient levels;
d) Peristatic pump and stepper motor driver cards;
e) WhatsApp and SMS integration for easy communication; and
f) Power supply and SMPS;
g) Relay cards of 20A and 10A;
h) Control, power, Digital input and output, analogue input wiring of the PLC control panel;
i) Terminals of PLC control panel;
j) HMI consist of 7” touch screen;
k) Enterprise resource planning (ERP); and
l) Artificial intelligence (AI) incorporated into the system for advanced data analysis and decision-making;
Wherein said system is located in the central area of farm and under shade.
2. The protected farm automation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said system optimize farm operations and maximize productivity with minimun resource consumption.
3. The protected farm automation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said temperature sensor senses temperature of 0 to 50 degree centigrade.
4. The protected farm automation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said humidity sensor senses 0 to 100% humidity.
5. The protected farm automation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensors operated at 4 to 20 mA.
6. The protected farm automation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said peristaltic pump attached with driver card with panel perminals selected from blue (A+), red (A-), black (B+) and green (B-).
7. The protected farm automation as claimed in claim 1, wherein said power supply of 230 VAC.
Dated 12th July, 2024

Chothani Pritibahen Bipinbhai
Reg. No.: IN/PA-3148
For and on behalf of the applicant