Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an agricultural field tilling device that is developed to enhance soil preparation processes by efficiently removing roots, assessing soil compaction, and perform tilling operations, thereby improving soil health and crop yield.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Agricultural practices have continuously evolved with the development of advanced machinery to improve efficiency and productivity. One of the essential tasks in farming is soil tilling, which prepares the land for planting by loosening the soil and removing obstacles like roots and debris. Effective tilling ensures better aeration, proper water absorption, and healthy root growth, leading to higher crop yields. Farmers rely on various tilling devices to perform this task, aiming to reduce manual labor and save time while ensuring the soil is adequately prepared for cultivation.

[0003] Traditional tilling methods often involve using simple plows, disc harrows, or rotary tillers attached to tractors. These tools work by cutting through and turning over the soil to create a suitable seedbed. While effective for basic soil preparation, these methods typically do not account for obstacles like deep-rooted plants or compacted soil layers. As a result, additional manual labor required to remove roots or break up hard soil, leading to inefficiencies in the process.

[0004] US8359988B2 discloses an agricultural implement for tilling at least a strip of soil to be planted includes a tillage device for penetrating and tilling a strip of soil and displacing soil and residue upwardly, the tillage device including at least one coulter wheel mounted for rotation about a first axis of rotation and positioned at least in part below the soil, when tilling the strip of soil, such that the coulter wheel is able to cut a slit in the soil, and a depth control device laterally offset from the centerline of the strip of soil and mounted for rotation about a second axis of rotation located rearwardly of the trailing end of the tillage device. The depth control device is positioned to intercept soil and residue displaced upwardly by the tillage device. Multiple tines made of a polymeric material are mounted on the depth control device, extending laterally away from only one side of the depth control device toward the centerline to intercept a portion of the soil and residue displaced upwardly by the tillage device.

[0005] US20130000535A1 discloses an agricultural device associated with reduced tillage techniques in a field includes a frame and a separator supported by the frame. The separator is configured to form a strip of exposed soil in residual plant matter in the field. A crimping device associated with the separator is configured to at least partially crush stems of residual plant matter while maintaining the strip.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to facilitate agricultural field tilling process, however the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to ability to adapt to varying soil conditions, and struggle to handling dense roots or hard soil layers, leading to incomplete tilling and potential damage to the equipment. Furthermore, the existing devices usually operate without real-time feedback on soil conditions, resulting in inconsistent tilling depth and soil compaction.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of detecting and removing roots from the soil prior to tilling, and enabling the adjustment of tilling depth and intensity to optimize soil aeration and root growth. Additionally, the device adjusts the operation based on real-time soil conditions, and aiming to reduce manual labor and save time while ensuring the soil is adequately prepared for cultivation.

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 autonomously detecting and removing roots from the soil prior to tilling, thereby preventing damage to tilling equipment and promoting healthier soil conditions.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of evaluating soil compaction levels, in view of enabling the adjustment of tilling depth and intensity to optimize soil aeration and root growth.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that adjusts its operation based on real-time soil conditions, in view of ensuring effective soil preparation across varying terrains and soil types.

[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 agricultural field tilling device that is able to improve soil structure and fertility through precise tilling, in view of facilitating better water infiltration, root penetration, and nutrient availability for crops, thereby promoting healthier soil conditions.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an agricultural field tilling device comprising of a frame developed to be secured on a rear section of an agricultural vehicle, plurality of clamping units is installed on the frame to acquire a grip over surface of the rear section to secure the frame with the rear section to perform soil tilling operations, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the frame to detect the presence of roots in the soil, a ground penetrating radar (GPR) module integrated within the frame to independently detect the presence of roots in the soil, a hydraulic linear actuator installed on front side of the frame and configured with a motorized conical shaped member to extend and penetrate the member within the soil.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further includes a plurality of pins protruding outwards of the member, upon penetrating the member within the soil, the members rotate in a manner to remove the roots efficiently from the soil prior to tilling of the soil, a plurality of motorized blades installed over lower portion of the frame by means of a motorized slider, a penetrometer sensor integrated within the member to detect the soil compaction levels, a force sensor integrated within each of the blades to detect force applied over the soil during tilling of the soil, and a battery unit is associated with the device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with the device.

[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 agricultural field tilling 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 agricultural field tilling device that facilitate the autonomous identification and extraction of subterranean plant structures before soil cultivation, thereby safeguarding tilling apparatus and fostering more robust soil ecosystems.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, a perspective view of an agricultural field tilling device is illustrated, comprising a frame 101 secured on a rear section of an agricultural vehicle, plurality of clamping units 102 is installed on frame 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on the frame 101, a hydraulic linear actuator 104 installed on front side of the frame 101 and configured with a motorized conical shaped member 105, a plurality of pins 106 protruding outwards from the member 105, a plurality of motorized blades 107 installed over lower portion of the frame 101 by means of a motorized slider 108.

[0023] The device disclosed herein comprising a frame 101 that is developed to be securely mounted on the rear section of an agricultural vehicle, designed to provide structural support and stability for various components. The frame 101 is specifically developed to be fastened to the vehicle’s rear section, ensuring it is firmly held in place during operation. The design and construction of the frame 101 are intended to withstand the stresses and forces encountered during agricultural tasks, ensuring durability and reliable performance over time.

[0024] The frame 101 is installed with plurality of clamping units 102 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) that is actuated by an inbuilt microcontroller to acquire a grip over surface of the rear section of the agricultural vehicle. The clamping units 102 used herein has open side and a curved side, forming a partial circle or a half-moon shape. At the open side of the clamping units 102, there is a screw mechanism which includes a threaded screw or spindle and an electric motor. As the motor rotates it causes the screw to move in or out, which in turn adjusts the width of the clamp opening and eventually applies the required force to grip the rear section of the vehicle to secure the frame 101 with the rear section to perform soil tilling operations.

[0025] The frame 101 is installed with an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 which detect the presence of roots in the soil. Synchronously, a ground penetrating radar (GPR) module that is integrated within the frame 101 to independently detect the presence of roots in the soil. The imaging unit 103 disclosed herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surroundings and the captured images are stored within memory of the imaging unit 103 in form of an optical data. The imaging unit 103 also comprises of the processor which processes the captured images.

[0026] 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 detect presence of roots in soil.

[0027] The GPR module emits electromagnetic waves into the ground and analyzes the reflected signals to identify subsurface objects, such as plant roots. Upon detection of these roots, the microcontroller enabling operators to assess root location and density. This information is crucial for optimizing soil management, preventing root damage during soil cultivation, and improving overall agricultural efficiency. The integration of the GPR module enhances precision and effectiveness in agricultural operations.

[0028] As the presence of roots in soil is determined, the microcontroller synchronously actuates a hydraulic linear actuator 104 that is installed on front side of the frame 101 and configured with a motorized conical shaped member 105. The actuator 104 is powered by a hydraulic unit that consist of a hydraulic cylinder, hydraulic compressor, hydraulic valve and piston that work in collaboration for providing the required extension/retraction to the actuator 104. The microcontroller actuates the valve to allow passage of hydraulic fluid from the compressor within the cylinder, the hydraulic fluid further develops pressure against the piston and results in pushing and extending the piston. The piston is connected with the actuator 104 and due to applied pressure, the actuator 104 extends and similarly, the microcontroller retracts the actuator 104 by closing the valve resulting in retraction of the piston. The microcontroller regulates the extension/retraction of the actuator 104 to penetrate the member 105 within the soil.

[0029] A plurality of pins 106 (preferably 2 to 6 in numbers) protrudes outward from the member 105, and upon the member 105 penetration into the soil, the microcontroller is configured to actuate these pins 106, causing them to rotate in a manner that effectively removes roots from the soil. The rotation of the pins 106 is designed to efficiently dislodge and extract roots from the soil before the tilling process begins. This action ensures that the soil is cleared of unwanted roots, preventing potential damage to agricultural machinery and enhancing the quality of soil preparation for subsequent farming activities. The microcontroller coordinates the rotation and movement of the pins 106 to optimize root removal and improve soil tilling efficiency.

[0030] A plurality of motorized blades 107 is installed over the lower portion of the frame 101, secured by means of a motorized slider 108. These blades 107 are developed to be adjustable, with the motorized slider 108 enabling controlled movement of the blades 107 along the frame 101. Prior actuation of the blades 107 and slider 108 the microcontroller detect the soil compaction levels via a penetrometer sensor integrated within the member 105.

[0031] As the sensor is activated by the microcontroller, the sensor measures the resistance encountered as it pushes into the soil. The sensor records the force required to penetrate different soil layers, providing data on the soil's compaction levels. Higher resistance indicates greater compaction, while lower resistance suggests looser soil. This data is processed by the microcontroller and used to assess the soil compaction levels.

[0032] Synchronously, the slider 108 gets actuated, wherein the slider 108 consists of a pair of sliding rail fabricated with grooves in which the wheel of a sliding arrangement is positioned that is further connected with a bi-directional motor via a shaft. The microcontroller actuates the bi-directional motor to rotate in clockwise and anti-clockwise direction that aids in rotation of shaft, wherein the shaft converts the electrical energy into rotational energy for allowing movement of the wheel to translate over the sliding rail by a firm grip on the grooves. The movement of the slider 108 results in translation of the blades 107 to maintain optimal gap as per soil compactness.

[0033] Synchronously, the blades 107 get actuated and rotate to perform tilling operation effectively. The blades 107 are coupled with a DC motor, wherein the DC motor works on the principle of electromagnetic induction: the stator and the rotor. The stator generates a magnetic field which usually consists of a permanent magnet or as set of coils through which direct current flows. The rotor is the moving part of the motor. The armature is connected to a commutator which is a rotary switch that reverses the direction of the current in the coil every half-turn. As the armature rotates, the brushes ensure a continuous flow of current by reversing its direction at the right moments. When the DC is applied to the armature, a magnetic field is created around the coil due to the current flowing through the coil. As the DC electric motor rotates, the rotational force rotates the blades 107 and perform tilling operation effectively.

[0034] A force sensor is integrated within each of the blades 107 to detect the force applied to the soil during the tilling process. The sensor continuously measures the resistance encountered by each blade 107 as it moves through the soil. This data is transmitted to the microcontroller, which analyzes the force values in real time. Based on the measured force, the microcontroller adjusts the speed of the blades 107 to ensure optimal tilling performance. The speed regulation ensures that the blades 107 apply the correct amount of force to efficiently break up the soil, improving soil aeration and preparation for subsequent agricultural activities.

[0035] The force sensor works by detecting the pressure or resistance exerted on it as the blades 107 interact with the soil during tilling. When the blades 107 move through the soil, the sensor measures the amount of force applied to the blades 107 surface. This is typically done through strain gauges or piezoelectric elements that convert mechanical stress into electrical signals. These signals are sent to the microcontroller, which processes the data to assess soil resistance. Based on the force readings, the microcontroller adjusts the speed of the blades 107 to ensure effective tilling, maintaining optimal pressure for soil manipulation.

[0036] 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.

[0037] The present invention works in the best manner, where the frame 101 developed to be secured on the rear section of the agricultural vehicle. Plurality of clamping units 102 acquire the grip over surface of the rear section to secure the frame 101 with the rear section to perform soil tilling operations. Then the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 detect presence of roots in soil. Upon detection of the roots the hydraulic linear actuator 104 configured with the motorized conical shaped member 105 to extend and penetrate the member 105 within the soil. Plurality of pins 106 protruding outwards of the member 105. Upon penetrating the member 105 within the soil, the microcontroller actuates the member 105 to rotate in the manner to remove the roots efficiently from the soil prior to tilling of the soil. And the pins 106 are configured with pneumatic unit. In case the pins 106 encounter hard objects, the pneumatic unit retract the pins 106 to prevent damage of the pins 106. Plurality of motorized blades 107 installed over lower portion of the frame 101 by means of the motorized slider 108. Prior actuation of the blades 107 the penetrometer sensor detects the soil compaction levels. Synchronously, the slider 108 provides sliding movement to the blades 107 to maintain optimal gap as per soil compactness. Also, the blades 107 rotate and perform tilling operation effectively. Furthermore, the force sensor detect force applied over the soil during tilling of the soil, in accordance to which the microcontroller regulates speed of the blades 107 to effectively perform tilling of the soil.

[0038] 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 agricultural field tilling device, comprising:

i) a frame 101 secured on a rear section of an agricultural vehicle, wherein plurality of clamping units 102 is installed on said frame 101 that is activated by an inbuilt microcontroller to acquire a grip over surface of said rear section to secure said frame 101 with said rear section to perform soil tilling operations;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on said frame 101 and integrated with a processor that is activated by said microcontroller to detect the presence of roots in the soil, a ground penetrating radar (GPR) module is integrated within said frame 101 to independently detect the presence of roots in the soil, wherein upon detection of said roots, said microcontroller actuates a hydraulic linear actuator 104 installed on front side of said frame 101 and configured with a motorized conical shaped member 105 to extend and penetrate said member 105 within said soil;
iii) a plurality of pins 106 protruding outwards from said member 105, wherein upon penetrating said member 105 within said soil, said microcontroller actuates said member 105 to rotate in a manner to remove said roots efficiently from said soil via said pins 106, prior to tilling of said soil; and
iv) a plurality of motorized blades 107 installed over lower portion of said frame 101 by means of a motorized slider 108, wherein a penetrometer sensor integrated within said member 105 is activated by said microcontroller to detect said soil compaction levels, in accordance to which said microcontroller actuates said slider 108 to provide sliding movement to said blades 107 to maintain optimal gap as per soil compactness, followed by actuation of said blades 107 to rotate and perform tilling operation effectively.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said pins 106 are configured with pneumatic unit, wherein in case said pins 106 encounters hard objects, said microcontroller actuates said pneumatic unit to retract said pins 106 to prevent damage of said pins 106.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a force sensor integrated within each of said blades 107 to detect force applied over said soil during tilling of said soil, in accordance to which said microcontroller regulates speed of said blades 107 to effectively perform tilling of said soil.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a battery unit is associated with said device for powering up electrical and electronically operated components associated with said device.