Abstract: A soil assessment and control device for construction projects, comprising a cuboidal body 101 with a touch-enabled screen 102 for user input and omnidirectional wheels 103 for maneuverability, an L-shaped telescopic rod 104 with a motorized drilling unit 105 for soil sampling, a sensing module 113 including moisture and pH sensor for detecting moisture and pH levels of the soil, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 for analyzing soil color and texture, a pair of robotic arms 107 that insert electrodes 108 to reduce excessive moisture in the soil, a circular plate 109 installed with a telescopic bar 110 equipped with an electromagnetic spring 112 and weighted block 111 for applying force to detect cracks, a force sensor for measuring the maximum applied force, and a density sensor for assessing soil density.
Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] The present invention relates to a soil assessment and control device for construction project developed for the efficient collection and analysis of essential soil characteristics such as moisture content, pH levels, color, texture, and density to support informed decision-making during construction planning.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Soil assessment is important in various aspect as this directly impacts the design, safety, and long-term stability of the construction structure. Before construction begins, a thorough soil analysis helps to determine the soil's composition, strength, compaction, drainage, and load-bearing capacity. This assessment is essential for identifying any potential risks, such as unstable soil, high moisture content, or areas prone to flooding or erosion which undermine the foundation or structural integrity of the building. Understanding the soil's characteristics also helps in the design process for ensuring that the foundation is properly engineered to suit the specific conditions of the site, thus preventing costly delays or structural failures in the future. Furthermore, soil testing helps ensure compliance with local building codes and regulations, reducing the likelihood of legal issues or project rework. This also enables the optimization of construction materials and methods for enhancing the overall efficiency and sustainability of the project. Conducting a soil assessment is an important step in the planning phase for providing crucial data that supports a safe, cost-effective, and durable construction project.
[0003] Traditional methods of soil assessment in construction projects typically involve visual inspection, hand augering, and basic soil sampling to evaluate the soil's composition and properties. Visual inspection allows engineers to assess surface conditions, such as vegetation or signs of erosion, while hand augering helps to collect soil samples from shallow depths to analyze texture, color, and moisture content. The collected samples are then tested in a laboratory for parameters like grain size, compaction, and shear strength. These methods are although cost-effective and relatively simple, but have significant drawbacks. They often provide limited information about the deeper layers of soil which are crucial for assessing load-bearing capacity especially for large-scale or high-rise projects. The samples taken from shallow depths are not representative of the entire site which lead to inaccurate conclusions about the overall soil stability. Traditional methods do not account for dynamic soil behavior, such as seismic or moisture-induced changes over time. As a result, relying on these techniques lead to poorly designed foundations, increased risk of structural failure, and higher & long-term maintenance costs.
[0004] US3872717A discloses about an invention that has a method and apparatus for use in determining the soil characteristics of an area by conducting a number of on-the-site soil penetration measurements. The soil testing apparatus includes a portable control console operatively connected to a soil testing instrument which is adapted to be lowered to predetermined depths within a test bore hole. The soil testing instrument includes a cylindrical body member having power operable stablizing means adapted to be moved into contact with the walls of a test bore hole for stabilizing the testing instrument in position at a predetermined depth and for applying a surcharge pressure on the walls of the hole adjacent to the area to be penetrated. The soil testing instrument includes power operable penetration means for effecting controlled penetration of the soil walls of the test bore hole. The remote console includes control means for effecting operation of the stabilizer means and for effecting operation of the penetration element. A modified form of the soil testing instrument includes one or more soil sampler means which are power operable and are controlled from the remote console unit wherein the soil sampler means is operable for removing a soil sample from the wall of a test bore hole at predetermined depths. Although, US’717 discloses about an invention that relies on a traditional soil penetration approach which is limited by its need for a test bore hole and stabilization at predefined depths. This process is cumbersome and time-consuming, especially in the field and requires manual intervention for depth control and soil sampling, which delay project timelines.
[0005] US6570999B1 discloses about an invention that has a soil analysis system for determining one or more categories of soil based upon the particle sizes in a soil sample. The soil analysis system includes an image sensor and an image analysis assembly. The image sensor produces an image to distinguish individual particles of a soil sample and calculates particle size. The image analysis assembly is coupled to the image sensor to determine a category for each particle based upon the size of the particles, percentage of each category of particles, and one or more categories of soil for the soil sample. Though, US’999 discloses about an invention that assess particle size and focuses only on the physical aspect of soil composition, without addressing other critical parameters such as moisture levels, pH, or soil density. This also lacks in actively responding to varying soil conditions, such as excess moisture and pH conditions.
[0006] Conventionally, many methods are available for carrying out the assessment of the soil at construction sites. However, the cited invention lacks in providing a comprehensive, real-time, and automated soil analysis that evaluate multiple parameters simultaneously such as moisture content, pH, soil texture, density, and structural integrity. Traditional methods require manual sampling, time-consuming testing, and separate equipment for each soil parameter, which lead to delayed decision-making and increased project costs. These methods do not integrate corrective actions in response to specific soil conditions, such as excess moisture, which significantly impacts the stability and suitability of the soil for construction.
[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that aids in soil assessment which provides real-time, on-site analysis of multiple critical soil parameters, such as moisture content, pH levels, texture, color, density, and structural stability. The developed invention offers a portable and automated solution that assess these parameters simultaneously without the need for time-consuming boreholes or manual intervention, thus enabling quicker, more accurate decisions in the construction planning process.
OBJECTS OF THE INVENTION
[0008] The principal object of the present invention is to overcome the disadvantages of the prior art.
[0009] An object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of facilitating on-site detailed soil assessment for construction projects by enabling easy maneuverability as per the requirement.
[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling the real-time collection and processing of essential soil characteristics that includes soil moisture content, pH levels, color, texture, and density, to aid in making informed decisions during construction planning.
[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing for precise soil sampling at predefined depths to assess critical soil parameters such as moisture and pH levels.
[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of capturing and analyzing soil color, texture, and physical properties for providing a comprehensive analysis of the soil’s suitability for construction.
[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of automatically responding to certain soil conditions, such as excessive moisture, by implementing corrective actions in view of ensuring that soil conditions are optimized for construction stability.
[0014] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that ensures that the site meets the necessary requirements for construction without the need for additional manual testing or delays.
[0015] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enhancing the efficiency of construction projects by providing timely, accurate soil data.
[0016] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will become readily apparent upon further review of the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment as illustrated in the accompanying drawings.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0017] The present invention relates to a soil assessment and control device for construction project that provides precise soil sampling and automatic corrective actions by enabling controlled sampling at predefined depths. The device measures critical soil parameters and provides response to specific soil conditions, such as excessive moisture to ensure optimal soil conditions for construction stability and structural integrity.
[0018] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a soil assessment and control device for construction project, comprising a cuboidal body with a touch-enabled screen for user input, omnidirectional wheels for maneuverability, and a microcontroller for processing commands. The device wirelessly connects to a computing unit through various communication modules (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GSM) to fetch relevant soil characteristics stored in a database, a telescopically operated rod with a motorized drilling unit powered by a pneumatic unit for precise soil sampling. The drilling unit is equipped with sensing module to measure soil pH and moisture levels. An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit captures and processes soil color and texture, enhancing the soil analysis. In case of excessive moisture, robotic arms insert electrodes into the soil, and a power supply is used to reduce moisture levels. A circular plate with a telescopic bar and a weighted block applies force to the soil for detecting cracking points and measuring the maximum force required. A density sensor on the block records the soil's density, and all collected data including density, force, pH, moisture, color, and texture are compared with ideal soil characteristics. If these parameters match, the device alerts the user in view of ensuring that the site meets the requirements for construction. The device is powered by a battery to support its electronic components and functionality.
[0019] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of a soil assessment and control device for construction project.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.
[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.
[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.
[0024] The present invention relates to a soil assessment and control device for construction project that enhance the efficiency and accuracy of construction projects by comparing the detected soil characteristics with ideal reference values in view of ensuring that the site meets necessary construction requirements, thus reducing the need for manual testing, and supporting safer, more cost-effective foundation design and material selection decisions.
[0025] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of a soil assessment and control device for construction project is illustrated, comprising a cuboidal body 101 positioned on a ground surface, a touch enabled screen 102 is installed on the body 101, plurality of omnidirectional wheels 103 are arranged underneath the body 101, an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 104 installed with the body 101 and equipped with a motorized drilling unit 105, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 mounted on the body 101, a pair of robotic arms 107 installed on the body 101 for inserting a pair of electrodes 108 attached with the robotic arms 107, a circular plate 109 installed with the body 101 and installed with a telescopically operated bar 110 having a free-end configured with a weighted block 111 via an electromagnetic spring 112 and a sensing module 113 arranged on the drilling unit 105.
[0026] The device disclosed herein includes a cuboidal body 101 which is developed to be positioned directly on the ground surface where a construction project is to take place. The body 101 is typically made from durable materials that include but not limited to metal or high-strength plastic to withstand the demands of outdoor environments and the weight of the various components it houses. The cuboidal shape offers both structural stability and efficient space for integrating the other components.
[0027] The cuboidal body 101 is installed with a touch enabled screen 102, which acts as the user interface. The screen 102 allows the user to interact with the device and provide input commands related to the construction project. The user is able to input various parameters or specifications regarding the project such as the type of construction, location, and specific soil characteristics to be assessed. The touch interface allows for intuitive control of the device making this easy to operate even in outdoor or construction site conditions. The user-friendly nature of the touch screen 102 is especially useful for quickly adjusting settings or accessing various functions of the device without the need for complex physical controls or manual input.
[0028] The body 101 is equipped with a plurality of omnidirectional wheels 103 arranged underneath. These wheels 103 are placed to provide the device with high maneuverability for enabling the body 101 to easily traverse uneven, rocky, or rough terrain typically found at construction sites. The omnidirectional wheels 103 are developed to allow for movement in any direction without requiring the device to rotate or turn in place, making the body 101 more efficient in navigating around obstacles and tight spaces. This ensures that the device easily move across the construction site and position itself precisely where soil testing needs to be conducted, without requiring the operator to manually push or lift the device.
[0029] An inbuilt microcontroller is intricately linked to the touch-enabled screen 102 that acts as the central processing unit of the device for managing all user inputs, controlling the different components, and ensuring seamless communication. When the user inputs commands through the touch screen 102, the microcontroller processes these inputs in real-time for interpreting the user's instructions and initiating the appropriate actions. For example, if the user specifies the need for a specific soil test, the microcontroller directs the device to activate the necessary equipment based on the inputs provided on the screen 102.
[0030] To enable efficient communication, the microcontroller is wirelessly connected to a computing unit via multiple communication modules. These modules include but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth, and GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) for providing versatile and robust connectivity options. Wi-Fi connectivity allows for fast data transmission over local networks for enabling the device to connect. Bluetooth aids in short-range communication which is used for connecting with nearby devices and on the other hand, the GSM module, typically used for mobile communication, ensures that the device connect to cellular networks in view of offering coverage in areas where Wi-Fi or Bluetooth are unavailable.
[0031] The microcontroller then activates an internet module to access the internet to fetch real-time data regarding soil characteristics ideal for specific construction projects. This information is typically stored in a database linked to the microcontroller, which houses a variety of data points including soil types, recommended pH ranges, moisture levels, and other critical characteristics relevant to different construction activities. For example, when constructing a high-rise building in an area prone to seismic activity, the soil type required for the foundation is stable, compacted, and capable of bearing heavy loads. Herein, the type of soil includes gravel or sandy clay, which has a high load-bearing capacity and excellent drainage properties. These soil types help to prevent settlement or shifting of the foundation over time which maintains the integrity of the structure. The database accessed by the microcontroller provide specific information about the preferred soil conditions, including optimal moisture levels and compaction in view of ensuring that the foundation is built on soil that withstand the weight and seismic forces associated with a tall, heavy building.
[0032] The database contains both generic soil data and more specialized, project-specific data, making this possible for the device to make informed assessments based on the particular requirements of the project at hand. For example, if the construction project involves building a large structure that requires specific soil stability, the device access the database to retrieve relevant information and compare it with the detected soil conditions on-site for ensuring that the project aligns with best practices and safety standards.
[0033] An L-shaped telescopically operated rod 104 is installed onto the main cuboidal body 101 and is able extend or retract based on the specific requirements of the soil test. The L-shape of the rod 104 allows to extend vertically into the soil while maintaining the stability of the device on the surface. The telescopically operated rod 104 is configured with a motorized drilling unit 105 for performing the actual drilling into the soil. The drilling unit 105 is equipped with a high-torque motor that provides the necessary rotational power to bore into the ground. The drilling unit 105 ensures that the drilling process is both efficient and consistent for minimizing human error and allowing for the collection of soil samples at specific depths with high precision.
[0034] The extension and retraction of the rod 104 is powered by a pneumatic unit which comprises of an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves, and a piston. The air compressor generates compressed air, which is then directed to the air cylinder, where this powers the piston. This piston creates linear motion which is responsible for extending and retracting the telescopic rod 104. The air valves control the flow of compressed air for enabling the microcontroller to precisely manage the extension of the rod 104. This ensures smooth and gradual movement for allowing the device to drill into the soil to a pre-set depth based on the parameters set by the user through the touch-enabled screen 102.
[0035] Once the rod 104 has reached the designated depth, a sensing module 113 equipped on the drilling unit 105 is activated to collect critical soil data during the drilling process. The sensing module 113 comprises of two primary sensors such as a moisture sensor and a pH sensor. The moisture sensor measures the amount of water present in the soil which aids in determining the soil’s suitability for various construction activities. Soil moisture greatly impact the integrity of structures as overly moist soil lead to instability or foundation problems. On the other hand, the pH sensor measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil. Soil pH is an essential parameter for understanding the soil's chemical composition and its ability to support specific types of construction or agricultural activities. Both sensors continuously monitor the soil conditions as the drilling unit 105 drills for providing real-time data on the moisture and pH levels of the soil at the specific depth being drilled.
[0036] The information gathered by these sensors is sent to the microcontroller which processes the data and stores it in the device’s database for further analysis. This real-time data collection helps assess whether the soil's moisture and pH are within acceptable ranges for the planned construction project. If the moisture level or pH falls outside the ideal range, the microcontroller triggers an alert or provide recommendations to the user on necessary adjustments or considerations. This precise and automated drilling and testing process significantly enhances the accuracy and speed of soil assessments for eliminating the need for manual testing and ensuring that the data collected is reliable and relevant to the specific construction needs.
[0037] An artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 is installed on the body 101 to analyze and interpret soil characteristics beyond basic physical measurements such as moisture and pH levels. The imaging unit 106 capture high-resolution images of the soil as the device moves across the construction site. The imaging unit 106 incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) protocols to process these images for allowing to detect key visual indicators such as the color and texture of the soil. These are important in soil assessment because they provide valuable insights into the soil's composition, type, and suitability for construction purposes. For example, the color of the soil indicates its organic content while texture analysis helps assess whether the soil is sandy, loamy, or clay-heavy, all of which influence the soil’s behavior under pressure and its capacity to support heavy structures.
[0038] As the imaging unit 106 captures multiple images of the soil, these visual data are processed and analyzed using artificial intelligence (AI) protocols that differentiate between various soil types and detect anomalies in the soil's appearance. This is useful in situations where visual attributes of the soil reveal information about its moisture content, compaction, or even potential contamination. The detected visual data, including color and texture, are stored in the device’s database alongside other critical parameters such as pH and moisture levels. This database is linked to the microcontroller in view of allowing the device to compare real-time image data with ideal soil characteristics retrieved from the internet or a predefined reference set. The ability to process these images in real time ensures that the soil’s condition is continuously monitored and assessed.
[0039] If, during this analysis, the moisture level of the soil exceeds a predefined threshold level indicating that the soil is too wet or saturated for certain construction activities, the device takes corrective action. The microcontroller, upon detecting this excess moisture, activates a pair of robotic arms 107 mounted on the body 101. These robotic arms 107 are equipped with electrodes 108 which are developed to be inserted into the soil. Once the robotic arms 107 position the electrodes 108 at the appropriate depth, the microcontroller directs a power supply unit to supply controlled voltage across the electrodes 108. This controlled electrical current is passed through the soil for creating an electro-osmotic effect that helps to reduce the moisture content by encouraging the movement of water molecules from the soil.
[0040] The controlled voltage is provided across the electrodes 108 is a targeted method to alter the moisture levels in the soil. The electrodes 108 generate an electric field that causes the moisture within the soil to move towards the electrodes 108 or migrate away from areas where it is excessively high for effectively helping to dehydrate the soil in a controlled manner. This method allows the device to correct soil conditions without the need for external interventions such as manual drying or waiting for natural evaporation. The process is finely tuned to target only the areas of the soil that exceed moisture thresholds for minimizing disruption to other areas of the site. By utilizing real-time image processing, AI protocols, and corrective actions such as moisture reduction through electro-osmosis, the device provide highly accurate and efficient soil assessments while also responding to changes in the soil’s condition.
[0041] Herein, a circular plate 109 is installed on the body 101 that aims at evaluating the soil's structural integrity and load-bearing capacity. The plate 109 is connected to a telescopically operated bar 110 that is capable of extending and retracting to adjust its length precisely controlled by the microcontroller, which directs the extension of the bar 110 to position a weighted block 111 onto the soil. The bar’s extension and retraction is powered through the coordination of pneumatic unit for providing smooth and controlled movement. The bar 110 ensures that the weighted block 111 is positioned directly above the soil surface for allowing for consistent application of force during the testing procedure.
[0042] The weighted block 111 is developed to simulate real-world pressure and forces that a soil surface experience during construction. The block 111 is connected to the telescoping bar 110 via an electromagnetic spring 112 that allows for a controlled gradual expansion and application of force when the block 111 is positioned above the soil. The spring is integrated with the electromagnet, which is electrically linked to the microcontroller. When the microcontroller activates the device, the electromagnet generates a magnetic field that interacts with the spring. This interaction allows for the controlled expansion or compression of the spring. In its compressed state, the electromagnet holds the spring in position, thus maintaining a set tension. Upon activation, the electromagnet reduces its magnetic pull, allowing the spring to gradually expand, thereby lowering the weighted block 111 onto the soil surface. Conversely, when retraction is required, the electromagnet is energized to apply a magnetic force, compressing the spring back into its initial position, which pulls the block 111 away from the soil. The force exerted by the block 111 is applied gradually to avoid sudden impacts that lead to unpredictable results in view of ensuring that the test accurately simulates the gradual pressure a soil surface encounter during construction.
[0043] As the weighted block 111 is lowered onto the soil, the block 111 begins to apply a force to the soil surface and gradually increasing in intensity. The microcontroller continuously controls the rate of descent and force application in view of ensuring that the device operates within the preset parameters. The testing procedure causes the development of cracks in the soil which occurs when the applied force exceeds the soil’s ability to absorb it. The imaging unit 106 continuously monitors the soil during the test and captures real-time images of the soil surface to detect any visual changes, particularly cracks or fractures. These cracks are indicative of the soil’s structural limitations which signals that the soil is no longer able to sustain the applied pressure which is crucial for evaluating its suitability for construction.
[0044] Synchronized with the force application and image capturing, a force sensor is embedded within the weighted block 111 to monitor and record the exact maximum force that the block 111 exerts on the soil before the cracks appear. The sensor continuously measures the force, sending this data to the microcontroller for analysis. The microcontroller records this maximum force value for determining the soil’s strength and ability to withstand heavy loads that provide valuable insights into the soil’s properties such as compressive strength and failure points which are factors in construction planning and foundation design.
[0045] Once the soil crack is detected, the microcontroller compares the measured force and the crack formation data with the ideal values stored in the device’s database that helps in determining whether the soil is suitable for construction or if further treatment or stabilization is necessary. If the measured force is lower than the required threshold or the cracks indicate potential instability, the microcontroller alert the user about the soil’s unsuitability for providing recommendations for corrective actions or alternative construction methods.
[0046] A density sensor is installed on the weighted block 111 for evaluating the soil’s compactness and structural integrity in view of determining whether the soil is suitable for construction. Soil density is an important parameter because this directly affects the soil’s ability to bear loads, influence drainage, and support structures. The sensor operates using an ultrasonic method which sends sound waves through the soil. By calculating the time taken for these waves to travel through the soil and return to the sensor, the device determines the soil's density. The denser the soil, the faster the waves travel, whereas less dense, looser soil will result in a slower return time.
[0047] The sensor is calibrated to interpret these waves for providing an accurate measure of the soil’s compactness. This data is then relayed to the microcontroller, which uses it to assess whether the soil is capable of supporting the load required for construction or if further soil compaction is necessary. The density sensor's ability to measure soil compaction helps ensure the stability and suitability of the foundation for the construction project. The density of the soil indicate its composition, for example whether the soil is more clay-like, sandy, or loamy. High-density soil generally indicates a compact and stable foundation whereas low-density soil are comparatively loose, unstable, or prone to shifting, which are problematic in construction projects.
[0048] As the weighted block 111 is positioned on the soil and force is gradually applied, the density sensor measures the resistance of the soil to the block’s downward force. The sensor works by detecting how the soil responds to compression and its ability to resist penetration. The force required to compress the soil further provide insight into its density, as denser soils resist deformation more than looser soils. The sensor continuously records the density value and this data is sent to the microcontroller for processing.
[0049] In parallel, the other parameters collected by the device, such as maximum force applied, pH, moisture level, soil color, and texture, are also monitored in real-time. These parameters collectively provides a comprehensive profile of the soil’s properties which are essential for construction planning. Once the microcontroller gathered the data pf all of these parameters, it compares them with a set of ideal soil characteristics. These ideal characteristics are pre-fed into the device’s database or are easily accessed in real-time through the internet connection, based on data relevant to the construction project.
[0050] If the detected soil characteristics including density, maximum force applied, pH, moisture level, soil color, and texture match the ideal values stored in the database, the microcontroller sends an alert to the computing unit accessed by the user. This alert is delivered via a wireless communication channel, such as Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity), Bluetooth, or GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication), depending on the configuration of the device. The alert indicates that the soil conditions are suitable for proceeding with the construction project.
[0051] However, if any of the detected parameters deviate from the ideal conditions, for example, if the density is too low, the moisture level is too high, or the pH is outside the acceptable range, the device flag this discrepancy and the microcontroller either send an alert warning that the soil is unsuitable for construction or suggest corrective measures, such as moisture reduction, compaction, or chemical treatments to adjust the soil’s pH.
[0052] Lastly, a battery (not shown in figure) is associated with the device to supply power to electrically powered components which are employed herein. The battery is comprised of a pair of electrodes named as a cathode and an anode. The battery uses a chemical reaction of oxidation/reduction to do work on charge and produce a voltage between their anode and cathode and thus produces electrical energy that is used to do work in the device.
[0053] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the user positioning the cuboidal body 101 on the ground surface where the construction project is to be carried out. The user inputs project details via the touch-enabled screen 102, which is linked to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes these inputs and wirelessly connects to the computing unit using communication modules to fetch ideal soil characteristics from the online database. The L-shaped telescopic rod 104, equipped with the motorized drilling unit 105 is then extended by the microcontroller to drill into the soil. As the drilling unit 105 penetrates the soil, the sensing module 113 detect the moisture level and pH of the soil, and this data is recorded. Simultaneously, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 captures multiple images of the soil's color and texture, which are processed and stored along with the moisture and pH readings. If the moisture level exceeds the threshold, the microcontroller activates the pair of robotic arms 107 to insert electrodes 108 into the soil and applies controlled voltage to reduce excess moisture. The device then uses the circular plate 109 with the telescopic bar 110 and weighted block 111 to apply force on the soil until cracks develop, at which point the force sensor measures the maximum force applied. The density sensor assesses the soil’s density and all the measured parameters are compared to the ideal soil characteristics. If the detected soil properties match the reference values, the microcontroller sends alert to the user’s computing unit which indicates that the site is suitable for the construction project.
[0054] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) A soil assessment and control device for construction project, comprising:
i) a cuboidal body 101 positioned on a ground surface where a construction project is to be carried out, wherein a touch enabled screen 102 is installed on said body 101 for enabling a user to give input commands regarding details of said construction project;
ii) a microcontroller linked with said screen 102 that processes said input commands and activates an internet module integrated within said microcontroller for accessing internet to fetch various soil characteristics ideal for carrying out said construction project which is saved in a database linked with said microcontroller;
iii) an L-shaped telescopically operated rod 104 installed with said body 101 and equipped with a motorized drilling unit 105, wherein said microcontroller actuates said rod 104 to extend gradually for drilling a pre-set length of soil on said ground surface via said drilling unit 105 for allowing a sensing module 113 arranged on said drilling unit 105 to detect pH and moisture level of said soil;
iv) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 106 paired with a processor mounted on said body 101 for capturing and processing multiple images of said soil, respectively, for detecting color and texture of said soil which is saved in said database in synching with detected pH and moisture level of said soil;
v) a circular plate 109 installed with a telescopically operated bar 110 having a free-end configured with a weighted block 111 via an electromagnetic spring 112, wherein said microcontroller actuates said bar 110 to extend for positioning said block 111 in proximity to soil, followed by activation of said electromagnetic spring 112 to gradually contract and expand for applying a force on said soil via said block 111 until a crack is developed on said soil, which when detected by said imaging unit 106, activates a force sensor arranged on said block 111 for detecting maximum force applied by said block 111 before development of said crack; and
vi) a density sensor arranged on said block 111 for detecting density of said soil, wherein said detected parameters including density, maximum force applied, pH, moisture level, soil color and texture are compared with said fetched soil characteristics, and in case said detected parameters matches said fetched soil characteristics, said microcontroller sends a notification on a computing unit accessed by said user to carry out said construction project.
2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein in case said detected moisture level exceeds a threshold level, said microcontroller actuates a pair of robotic arms 107 installed on said body 101 for inserting a pair of electrodes 108 attached with said robotic arms 107, in said soil, and said microcontroller directs a power supply unit paired with said electrodes 108 for supplying controlled voltage across said electrodes 108 to reduce moisture of said soil.
3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module 113 includes a moisture sensor and a pH sensor for detecting moisture level and pH of said soil, respectively.
4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said microcontroller is wirelessly linked with said computing unit via a communication module which incudes, but not limited to Wi-Fi (Wireless Fidelity) module, Bluetooth module, GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module.
5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein plurality of omnidirectional wheels 103 are arranged underneath said body 101 for allowing said user to maneuver said body 101 on said ground surface.
6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said L-shaped telescopically operated rod 104 and telescopically operated bar 110 are powered by a pneumatic unit that includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of said rod 104 and bar 110.
7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery is associated with said device for supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.
| # | Name | Date |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 202421094428-STATEMENT OF UNDERTAKING (FORM 3) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 2 | 202421094428-REQUEST FOR EXAMINATION (FORM-18) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 3 | 202421094428-REQUEST FOR EARLY PUBLICATION(FORM-9) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 4 | 202421094428-POWER OF AUTHORITY [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 5 | 202421094428-FORM-9 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 6 | 202421094428-FORM FOR SMALL ENTITY(FORM-28) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 7 | 202421094428-FORM 18 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 8 | 202421094428-FORM 1 [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 9 | 202421094428-FIGURE OF ABSTRACT [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 10 | 202421094428-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI(FORM-28) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 11 | 202421094428-EVIDENCE FOR REGISTRATION UNDER SSI [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 12 | 202421094428-EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION(S) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 13 | 202421094428-DRAWINGS [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 14 | 202421094428-DECLARATION OF INVENTORSHIP (FORM 5) [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 15 | 202421094428-COMPLETE SPECIFICATION [01-12-2024(online)].pdf | 2024-12-01 |
| 16 | Abstract.jpg | 2024-12-27 |
| 17 | 202421094428-FORM-26 [03-06-2025(online)].pdf | 2025-06-03 |