Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting that monitors, manages, and optimizes the feeding preferences of earthworms in a controlled environment, for ensuring optimal conditions for vermiculture, thereby enhance the overall composting process and improve the efficiency of organic waste decomposition.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Vermicomposting, a process where earthworms break down organic waste into rich compost, has been a natural method used for improving soil health. For years, people have managed the feeding process of earthworms by simply observing and adjusting what they believe is best, usually based on trial and error. People manually place various types of food scraps, like kitchen waste, in containers, hoping the earthworms would process them. However, this approach often lacks accuracy. Since there’s no way to track or measure what the earthworms prefer to eat, it’s difficult to ensure that they’re being fed the right types of organic material in the right quantities. This often leads to waste, slower composting, and suboptimal results. Without an efficient method to analyze and track feed preferences, people waste time, effort, and resources, which affects the overall effectiveness of the composting process.

[0003] Traditionally, people collect kitchen scraps, yard waste, and other organic materials and place them in simple containers like bins, pits, or compost piles. Earthworms, were used to break down the organic matter over time. While effective, these methods were rudimentary and labour-intensive, relying on the judgment of the person managing the composting process. So, people also use to feed worms, often by simply dumping organic matter into a designated area and hoping that the worms break it down. These methods were still very dependent on human observation and effort, and there was no means to measure or track the worms' food preferences, leading to imbalanced feeding and inefficient composting.

[0004] CN117136914A discloses an invention that includes a method for detecting the preference of earthworms to different environments and different organic wastes. According to the invention, a plurality of test materials are simultaneously placed, so that earthworms can freely migrate among different test materials to detect the preference of the earthworms to different organic wastes, the detection period of the preference of the earthworms to different organic wastes is greatly shortened, the use amount of raw materials in the detection process is reduced, and the manpower and material resources consumed in the detection cannot be increased along with the increase of the types of the organic wastes to be detected, so that the purpose of rapid, visual and accurate detection is achieved; the invention provides a simple and quick detection method for detecting the preference of earthworms to environmental conditions by designing a three-factor four-level orthogonal test.

[0005] US9067839B2 discloses a vermicomposting device for vermicomposting organic material, comprises a casing including an annular hollow body member defining an internal cavity, a head member mounted to an upper end portion of the body member and a base member removably attached to a lower end portion of the body member, and a plurality of composting trays removably disposed within the internal cavity in a stacked relationship. Each of the composting trays is an open top tray including a circular perforated bottom wall surrounded by an annular side wall upwardly extending from the perforated bottom wall. The base member includes a support portion and a drip bucket disposed under the composting trays to receive and collect any liquid byproduct from the vermicomposting process. The head member is movable relative to the body member so as to provide an access to the internal cavity of the body member.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed that are capable of analyzing feed preference of earthworms. However, these devices do not offer automatic regulation of moisture levels and hydration of organic feed. Additionally, these existing devices also fail in developing an optimal and controlled environment for earthworms, hindering their ability to thrive and efficiently engage in the vermicomposting process.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that requires to automate the control of moisture levels and hydration of organic feed, in view of establishing optimal conditions for earthworms and enhancing the decomposition process. In addition, the developed device also requires to offer a regulated and supportive environment for earthworms to flourish and actively contribute to vermicomposting, for ensuring they have access to suitable nourishment and promoting their movement toward preferred feeding areas.

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 provides an efficient and controlled environment for earthworms to thrive and engage in vermicomposting, thereby ensuring earthworms have access to appropriate feeding materials and facilitates migration to preferred food sources.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that regulates moisture levels and hydration of organic feed automatically, in view of creating ideal conditions for earthworms and optimizing the decomposition process.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that improves composting by ensuring that organic feed is appropriately hydrated and the conditions remain favourable for efficient waste decomposition and production of nutrient-rich compost.

[0012] 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

[0013] The present invention relates to an earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting that automate the process of monitoring earthworm migration, food preferences, and feeding patterns, in view of reducing the need for manual observation. Additionally, the proposed device also provides valuable insights into the feeding habits of earthworms, in view of aiding in the development of improved composting practices and optimizing organic waste recycling processes.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting, comprises of a central section for housing earthworms, the central section is configured with perforated lateral walls for enabling the earthworms to traverse outwards from the central section, the central section is provided with meshed upper surface for enabling ventilation and provided a view of the earthworms to a user, an outer section arranged to surround the central section, the outer section is constructed with plurality of hollow partitions for storage of organic feed to be decomposed by the earthworms, the partitions are formed by removable vertical structures enabling an adjustment of number and dimensions of the partitions, and a moisture sensor is embedded in each of the partitions, to detect a moisture level of the organic feed.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of a sprinkler is installed in each of the partitions for hydrating the organic feed stored in the partitions, the sprinklers receive water from a pipe provided within the outer section, connecting the sprinklers with a water supply, the outer section is provided with an outwardly directed slope at a bottom surface, for drainage of water via drainage valves configured with the bottom surface of the outer section, a middle section disposed between the central section and the outer section to provide a buffer region between the central section and the outer section to enable the traversing earthworms to access any of the partitions for feeding, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit, installed on the central section to determine preferences of the earthworms for feeding for vermicomposting, a storage unit is provided with the processor for storage of data gathered by the imaging unit, the imaging unit is configured with a thermal sensor for capturing thermal signatures of the earthworms for accurate tracking of migration of the earthworms.

[0016] 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

[0017] 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 a perspective view of an earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting; and
Figure 2 illustrates a perspective view of an outer section associated with the proposed device.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0018] 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.

[0019] 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.

[0020] 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.

[0021] The present invention relates to an earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting that facilitate the creation of an efficient and controlled environment that promotes the optimal growth and activity of earthworms for effective vermicomposting, thereby ensuring the earthworms have access to suitable feed and enabling their migration towards preferred food sources.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, a perspective view of an earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting and a perspective view of an outer section associated with the proposed device, are illustrated, respectively, comprising a central section 101, an outer section 102 arranged to surround the central section 101, outer section 102 is constructed with plurality of hollow partitions 103, a middle section 104 disposed between the central section 101 and the outer section 102, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105, installed on the central section 101, a sprinkler 201 is installed in each of the partitions 103, multiple drainage valves 202 configured with the bottom surface of the outer section 102, the sprinkler 201 receive water from a pipe 203 provided within the outer section 102 and the central section 101 is provided with meshed upper surface 106.

[0023] The device disclosed herein, comprises of a central section 101 which is designed to house earthworms and is equipped with perforated lateral walls. These perforations allow the earthworms to move from the central section 101 to surrounding areas. The perforated walls provide a controlled environment that facilitates the earthworms' natural behaviour of migration, ensuring that these moves freely in and out of the central section 101 as required for optimal composting.

[0024] The configuration of the walls is specifically designed to regulate the movement of the earthworms while preventing them from escaping the housing. This setup ensures that the earthworms are effectively contained within the device, yet are able to access and interact with the surrounding environment as necessary for efficient waste processing.

[0025] The central section 101 is equipped with a meshed upper surface 106, designed to facilitate proper ventilation within the housing. This ventilation allows for the circulation of air, which is essential for maintaining a healthy environment for the earthworms, preventing the buildup of harmful gases and ensuring optimal conditions for their activity. The meshed upper surface 106 also provides transparency, enabling the user to observe the earthworms within the housing.

[0026] This visibility ensures that the user monitor the health and behaviour of the earthworms, ensuring the efficiency of the vermicomposting process. The combination of ventilation and visibility through the meshed upper surface 106 allows for both the well-being of the earthworms and the ease of user oversight. An outer section 102 is designed to encase the central section 101, providing a protective and functional boundary. This outer section 102 is constructed with multiple hollow partitions 103, each serving as individual storage compartments for organic feed.

[0027] These partitions 103 are strategically placed to store the organic matter that is to be decomposed by the earthworms housed in the central section 101. The hollow nature of these partitions 103 allows for easy storage and access to the feed, ensuring that the earthworms have a continuous and adequate supply of organic material. The design of the outer section 102 facilitates optimal distribution and decomposition of the feed, enhancing the efficiency of the vermicomposting process by allowing the earthworms to gradually consume and break down the stored feed in an organized and systematic manner.

[0028] The partitions 103 within the outer section 102 are formed by removable vertical structures, which allow for flexibility in the arrangement of the storage compartments. These removable structures enable the user to adjust the number and dimensions of the partitions 103 based on the specific requirements of the vermicomposting process.

[0029] The ability to modify the number and size of the partitions 103 ensures that the storage space is customized to accommodate varying quantities of organic feed. This adjustable design provides the user with greater control over the device, allowing for optimization of space and efficient feed storage. Also, enhances the versatility of the device, by enabling the device to adapt to different types and volumes of feed, thereby supporting the effective and efficient decomposition by the earthworms.

[0030] Each of the partitions 103 is embedded with a moisture sensor, designed to monitor and detect the moisture levels of the organic feed within the partitions 103. The moisture sensor continuously measures the amount of water present in the organic material, providing real-time data on the moisture content. This feature is essential for maintaining optimal conditions for the earthworms' feeding and decomposition process.

[0031] The moisture level is a critical factor, as it influences the earthworms’ ability to efficiently decompose the organic matter. By detecting fluctuations in moisture levels, the sensor allows for timely adjustments, ensuring that the organic feed remains within the ideal moisture range for effective vermicomposting.

[0032] The moisture sensor detects the water content in the organic feed by measuring the electrical resistance between two electrodes embedded within the material. As the moisture content increases, the electrical conductivity between the electrodes rises, allowing the sensor to measure this change. The sensor sends this data to the connected microcontroller, which analyzes the moisture level in real-time. If the moisture level deviates from the desired range, the microcontroller triggers an alert or activates additional components (such as irrigation or drainage systems) to maintain the optimal moisture level for effective decomposition by the earthworms.

[0033] Synchronously, the microcontroller actuates a sprinkler 201 which is installed in each of the partitions 103. The sprinkler 201 consists of multiple small holes and used for the purpose of watering. The electronic sprinkler 201 used here consists of a magnetic coil embedded in it, on actuation the magnetic coil generates the magnetic force which push the gate of the sprinkler 201 to open and allow the water to be sprinkled for hydrating the organic feed stored in the partitions 103.

[0034] The sprinkler 201 are connected to a water supply like pump, through a pipe 203 integrated within the outer section 102 of the device. This pipe 203 channels water to the sprinkler 201, ensuring a consistent and controlled flow. The sprinkler 201, upon activation, distribute water evenly across the organic feed stored within the hollow partitions 103.

[0035] The water is supplied based on the moisture requirements detected by the moisture sensors, helping to maintain optimal conditions for the decomposition process. The connection between the sprinkler 201 and water supply ensures that the feed remains adequately hydrated, promoting effective feeding and processing by the earthworms.

[0036] The outer section 102 is designed with a sloped bottom surface that directs any excess water towards the drainage valves 202. These drainage valves 202 are strategically placed along the bottom surface to facilitate the efficient removal of excess water. As water accumulates, it naturally flows downward due to the slope, ensuring that the organic feed and surrounding environment remain free from waterlogging.

[0037] The drainage arrangement helps to maintain the proper moisture levels within the feed, thereby preventing over-saturation and promoting the optimal conditions for earthworm activity. The drainage valves 202 ensure that any excess water is effectively removed, maintaining balance in the device.

[0038] The drainage valves 202 are strategically positioned at the lowest point of the outer section 102 sloped surface. As excess water collects, gravity causes it to flow towards these valves 202. When the water level reaches a preset threshold, the valves 202 automatically open, allowing the excess water to drain out. The design of the valves 202 ensures that water is released without disturbing the organic feed or the earthworms. Once the water level drops to an acceptable range, the valves 202 close, preventing further water drainage. This helps in maintaining optimal moisture levels within the feed and prevents waterlogging.

[0039] A middle section 104 is positioned between the central section 101 housing the earthworms and the outer section 102 containing the organic feed. This middle section 104 acts as a buffer zone, allowing the earthworms to traverse from the central section 101 to the outer section 102. Also, the section facilitates the movement of earthworms by providing an unobstructed path to the partitions 103 within the outer section 102.

[0040] The design ensures that earthworms access the organic feed in the partitions 103 for consumption without encountering any barriers, thus promoting effective feeding and natural composting activities. The middle section 104 ensures smooth transition and access, supporting the overall vermicomposting process.

[0041] On the central section 101 an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105, is installed which is synchronously, actuated by the microcontroller to determine preferences of the earthworms for feeding for vermicomposting. The imaging unit 105 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings which includes migration of the earthworms towards the outer section 102 and the captured data are stored within memory of the imaging unit 105 in form of an optical data.

[0042] The imaging unit 105 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images. This pre-processing involves tasks such as noise reduction, image stabilization, or color correction. The processed data is fed into AI protocols for analysis which utilizes machine learning techniques, such as deep learning neural networks, to extract meaningful information from the visual data which are processed by the microcontroller to determine preferences of the earthworms for feeding for vermicomposting.

[0043] A storage unit is integrated with the processor to securely store the data collected by the imaging unit 105. The processor retrieves and processes the information captured by the imaging unit 105, such as visual data or images of the surroundings, and stores it within the storage unit. This ensures that the data is preserved for future reference, analysis, or further processing. The storage unit provides an organized and accessible means for managing the data, supporting the overall functionality of the device and facilitating efficient operation of the device.

[0044] The imaging unit 105 is configured with a thermal sensor which captures thermal signatures of the earthworms. The imaging unit 105 is equipped with a thermal sensor designed to capture the thermal signatures of the earthworms. The sensor detects variations in temperature emitted by the earthworms, enabling the device to identify their presence and movement within the central section 101. By monitoring these thermal signatures, the imaging unit 105 track the earthworms' activity, location, and behavior. This information processed by the microcontroller to optimize conditions for the earthworms, such as adjusting feed or moisture levels, and to ensure the efficient operation of the vermicomposting process.

[0045] The thermal sensor detects the infrared radiation emitted by the earthworms based on their body temperature. As the earthworms move or change their position within the environment, the sensor captures the heat signatures they emit. These thermal patterns are converted into electrical signals, which are processed by the device to create a temperature map of the area. This data is used to track the earthworms' location and activity within the device. The thermal sensor helps in monitoring the health and behaviour of the earthworms, ensuring optimal conditions for feeding and vermicomposting.

[0046] Moreover, a battery is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device and supplying a voltage to the components. The battery used herein is preferably a Lithium-ion battery which is a rechargeable unit that demands power supply after getting drained. The battery stores the electric current derived from an external source in the form of chemical energy, which when required by the electronic component of the device, derives the required power from the battery for proper functioning of the device.

[0047] 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. , Claims:1) An earthworm feed preference analysis device for vermicomposting, comprising:

i) a central section 101 for housing earthworms, wherein said central section 101 is configured with perforated lateral walls for enabling said earthworms to traverse outwards from said central section 101;
ii) an outer section 102 arranged to surround said central section 101, wherein said outer section 102 is constructed with a plurality of hollow partitions 103 for storage of organic feed to be decomposed by said earthworms;
iii) a middle section 104 disposed between said central section 101 and said outer section 102 to provide a buffer region between said central section 101 and said outer section 102 to enable said traversing earthworms to access any of said partitions 103 for feeding; and
iv) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105, installed on said central section 101 and integrated with a processor for recording and processing images in a vicinity of said central section 101, to record migration of said earthworms towards said outer section 102 to determine preferences of said earthworms for feeding for vermicomposting, wherein a storage unit is provided with said processor for storage of data gathered by said imaging unit 105.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a sprinkler 201 is installed in each of said partitions 103 for hydrating the organic feed stored in said partitions 103.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a moisture sensor is embedded in each of said partitions 103, to detect a moisture level of said organic feed to enable a regulation of said sprinkler 201 in accordance with detected moisture levels of said organic feed.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said outer section 102 is provided with an outwardly directed slope at a bottom surface, for drainage of water via drainage valves 202 configured with said bottom surface of said outer section 102.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sprinkler 201 receive water from a pipe 203 provided within said outer section 102, connecting said sprinkler 201 with a water supply.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein imaging unit 105 is configured with a thermal sensor for capturing thermal signatures of said earthworms for accurate tracking of migration of said earthworms.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said central section 101 is provided with meshed upper surface 106 for enabling ventilation and provided a view of said earthworms to a user.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said partitions 103 are formed by removable vertical structures enabling an adjustment of number and dimensions of said partitions 103.