Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings that is capable in assisting the user in digging holes for plant saplings by identifying and marking plant sapling positions for effective soil excavation at the right depth, enhancing accuracy and efficiency during planting thereby facilitating the smooth placement of saplings thus, improving overall planting efficiency.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Planting saplings presents several challenges that impact efficiency, precision, and plant health, manual excavation methods, such as using shovels or hoes, are labor-intensive and time-consuming, especially when planting large numbers of saplings over a vast area. These methods often lead to inconsistent hole sizes and depths, which negatively affect root development and plant stability. Soil hardness varies across different areas, making it difficult to achieve uniform hole depths manually. Excessive or insufficient digging either damage sapling roots or fail to provide adequate soil coverage, leading to poor establishment. Additionally, the lack of precision in marking sapling positions results in uneven spacing, reducing overall crop yield and making maintenance more challenging. Monitoring soil parameters like pH levels and nutrient content is typically a separate task, requiring specialized tools and expertise. Without proper soil preparation and fertilization, saplings struggle to establish and grow, further complicating the process.

[0003] Traditionally, sapling planting involves manual efforts to mark positions, dig holes, and prepare the soil. This approach is time-consuming and prone to errors in depth control and placement, leading to uneven sapling growth. Soil assessment for parameters like pH and nutrient content is typically conducted separately, requiring additional tools and expertise. Fertilizer application is often imprecise, risking overuse or underuse, which harm plant growth or waste resources.

[0004] US20020194753A1 A soil excavating apparatus is disclosed for use in combination with a cleaning/vacuuming machine having at least one high pressure fluid supply in the vacuum line. The apparatus includes a spray head secured to the vacuum line first end, and disposed substantially thereabout. The spray head is in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid supply. A plurality of inboard spray nozzles are disposed substantially thereabout. The spray head is in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid supply. A plurality of inboard spray nozzles are removably secured to the spray head and extend therefrom. The spray nozzles are angularly oriented to direct the pressurized fluid towards a center line of the vacuum line.

[0005] US6484422B1 A soil excavating apparatus for use in combination with a cleaning/vacuuming machine having at least one high pressure fluid supply in the vacuum line. A soil excavating apparatus is disclosed for use in combination with a cleaning/vacuuming machine having at least one high pressure fluid supply in the vacuum line. The apparatus includes a spray head secured to the vacuum line first end, and disposed substantially thereabout. The spray head is in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid supply. A plurality of inboard spray nozzles are disposed substantially thereabout. The spray head is in fluid communication with the pressurized fluid supply. A plurality of inboard spray nozzles are removably secured to the spray head and extend therefrom. The spray nozzles are angularly oriented to direct the pressurized fluid towards a center line of the vacuum line.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed in order to facilitate plant saplings but however the devices mentioned in the prior arts have limitations pertaining to offer limited precision and do not account for soil-specific parameters like hardness, pH, or nutrient level, and also unable to integrate fertilizer dispensing, further complicating the planting process.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of sapling planting by accurately marking positions, controlling digging depth based on soil hardness, monitoring soil parameters to dispense appropriate fertilizers, and promote healthy plant growth, ultimately enhancing crop yield and resource management.

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 in assisting the user in digging holes for plant saplings by accurately identifying and marking plant sapling positions on a field thereby, ensuring precision and ease of use in field operations.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of assisting the user in digging holes for plant saplings by facilitating precise soil excavation for sapling planting by automatically controlling the depth of the hole based on soil hardness thereby enhancing accuracy and efficiency during planting.

[0011] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable in assisting the user in digging holes for plant saplings by monitors soil parameters such as pH levels and nutritional content for dispensing the appropriate fertilizer to improve fertility for healthy plant growth, thus helping healthy plant growth and get the most out of crop yields.

[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 a hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings that is capable in assisting the user in digging holes for plant saplings in accordance with soil parameters such as pH levels and nutritional content for dispensing the appropriate fertilizer to improve fertility for healthy plant growth, thus promoting healthy plant growth and maximizing crop yields.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, a hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings comprising of an elongated body having a handle that is accessed by a user for acquiring a grip over the body, a free end of the body is arranged with a hollow cylindrical member that is positioned by the user in proximity to ground surface of a field, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit installed on the body for capturing multiple images of surrounding of the body, a touch interactive display panel is arranged on the body for displaying the captured images that are accessed by the user for selecting a number of points of the surface where the user desires to plant saplings, a holographic projection unit mounted on the body configured to project a hologram overs the surface that guides the user is positioning the member at an user-specified point, an ultrasonic sensor is installed on the body for detecting placement of the body on the user specified point, and upon successful detection the microcontroller actuates a hydraulic actuator attached with ceiling of the member to extend and retract in a repetitive manner for inserting a spiral blade attached with pusher inside the soil, a tactile sensor integrated with the blade to detect hardness of the soil, based on which the microcontroller regulates actuation of a DC (Direct Current) electric motor coupled with the blade to rotate the blade in clockwise and counterclockwise direction, in view of digging soil from the point.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the invention further includes plurality of curved-shaped members attached with bottom portion of the member, each via a motorized hinge, the microcontroller post digging soil from the user-specified point, actuates the hinges to provide movement to the members, in view of dispersing soil from the dug hole, allowing the user to accommodate sapling inside the hole with ease, a sensing module integrated on lower portion of the member for monitoring parameters including pH level and nutritional content in soil of the field, based on which the microcontroller evaluates a suitable fertilizer for the soil, in accordance to which the microcontroller actuates an electronically controlled spout integrated in a multi-sectioned chamber installed on the member to dispense the suitable fertilizer store in the chamber on the soil in order to increase fertility of the soil for proper nourishment of the plant, the sensing module includes a NPK sensor and pH sensor, a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on the body for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding, and in case the detected intensity of light in surroundings recedes a threshold level, the microcontroller actuates plurality of LED (Light Emitting Diode) lights configured on the body to glow for providing optimal illumination to the user, a battery 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 an isometric view a hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings.

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 hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings that is capable in assisting the user in digging holes for plant saplings enabling the even dispersal of soil from the dug hole thereby ,facilitating the smooth placement of saplings, improving overall planting efficiency.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view a hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings illustrated comprises of an elongated body 101 having a handle 102 that is accessed by a user for acquiring a grip, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on the body 101, a touch interactive display panel 104 is arranged on the body 101, a holographic projection unit 105 mounted on the body 101 a hydraulic actuator 106 attached with ceiling of the member, a spiral blade 107 attached with actuator 106, , a hollow cylindrical member 108 attached free end of the body 101 a motorized hinge 109 attached with bottom portion of the member 108 , plurality of curved-shaped members 110 attached on the hinge 109 , a multi-sectioned chamber 111 installed on the member 108 , an electronically controlled spout 112 integrated in a multi-sectioned chamber 111 , plurality of LED 113 (Light Emitting Diode) lights configured on the body 101.

[0023] The device disclosed herein comprises an elongated body 101 having a handle 102 that is accessed by a user for acquiring a grip over the body 101. Here a free end of the body 101 is arranged with a hollow cylindrical member 108 that is positioned by the user in proximity to ground surface of a field. The handle 102 used herein is fabricated with a cushioned layered to provide a comfortable experience to the user. The cushion-layered handle 102 used herein is designed for enhanced comfort and grip during use. The handle 102 features a soft, ergonomic layer that reduces strain on the hand, ensuring a firm yet gentle hold. The cushioning absorbs pressure and minimizes fatigue, making ideal for prolonged handling.

[0024] The user activates the device through a push button associated with the body 101. The push button has an outer casing and an inner mechanism, including a spring and metal contacts. When the button is pressed, it pushes down on the spring-loaded mechanism inside. In the default state, the internal contacts are apart, so the circuit is open and no electricity flows. Pressing the button makes the contacts touch each other, closing the circuit and allowing electricity to flow and activate the device. The device in turn activates an inbuilt microcontroller that is pre-fed with a defined set of instructions to perform various functions. When the button is released, the spring pushes back to original position.

[0025] Upon activating the device, the microcontroller activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on said body 101 for capturing multiple images of surrounding of the body 101. The imaging unit 103 used herein comprises of an image capturing arrangement including a set of lenses that captures multiple images of the surrounding the body 101, and the captured images are stored within a memory of the imaging unit 103 in form of an optical data.

[0026] The imaging unit 103 also comprises of a processor that is integrated with artificial intelligence protocols, such that the processor processes the optical data and extracts the required data from the captured images. The extracted data is further converted into digital pulses and bits and are further transmitted to the microcontroller. The microcontroller processes the received data and detecting exact location of the surrounding.

[0027] Post identifying the surrounding the microcontroller activates a touch interactive display panel 104 is arranged on the body 101 for displaying the captured images that are accessed by the user for selecting a number of points of the surface where the user desires to plant saplings. The captured images is sent to a touch interactive display panel 104 is arranged on the component in the form of an electric signal for displaying the images.

[0028] The touch interactive display panel 104 as mentioned herein is typically an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) screen that presents output in a visible form. The screen is equipped with touch-sensitive technology, allowing the user to interact directly with the display using their fingers. A touch controller IC (Integrated Circuit) is responsible for processing the analogue signals generated when the user inputs details regarding number of points of the surface where the user desires to plant saplings. The touch controller is typically connected to the microcontroller through various interfaces which may include but are not limited to SPI (Serial Peripheral Interface) or I2C (Inter-Integrated Circuit).

[0029] Further the microcontroller activates a holographic projection unit 105 mounted on said body 101 configured to project a hologram overs the surface that guides the user is positioning the member 108 at an user-specified point. The holographic projection unit 105 used herein works by using a combination of lasers, mirrors, and diffraction patterns to project a 3D (three dimensional) hologram over a surface. The unit emits coherent laser light that passes through special diffraction optics, which modulate the light to encode 3D information. These modulated light waves are directed at the surface, where they interact with the environment, creating the illusion of a floating, three-dimensional image.

[0030] The device includes an ultrasonic sensor is installed on the body 101 for detecting placement of the body 101 on the user specified point. The ultrasonic sensor used herein works by emitting ultrasonic waves from a transmitter. These waves travel toward the target surface (the specified point) and reflect back to the sensor’s receiver once they hit the surface. The sensor measures the time it takes for the waves to return. This time is then used to calculate the distance between the sensor and the target surface. By continuously monitoring this distance, the sensor determine if the body 101 is correctly placed at the specified point.

[0031] Upon successful detection the microcontroller actuates a hydraulic actuator 106 attached with ceiling of the member 108 to extend and retract in a repetitive manner for inserting a spiral blade 107 attached with actuator 106 inside the soil. The hydraulic actuator 106 extend/retract through a hydraulic pump in which fluid moves from a reservoir into the hydraulic cylinder. The hydraulic cylinder is a sealed tube with a piston inside. When the pump sends fluid into the cylinder, it fills one side of the piston. The fluid pressure pushes against the piston, causing it to move. Because the piston is attached to the hydraulic actuator 106, this movement extends the rod outward from the cylinder. The actuator 106 continues to extend as long as fluid is being pumped into the cylinder. When the actuator 106 reaches the desired height, the pump stops, and the fluid remain in the cylinder for holding the rod in place. To retract the actuator 106, the hydraulic fluid is directed out of the cylinder and back to the reservoir. This causes the piston to move back into the cylinder, retracting the rod. This way the rod extends/retracts in repetitive manner for inserting the spiral blade 107 attached with pusher inside the soil.

[0032] After inserting the blade 107 the microcontroller activates a tactile sensor integrated with the blade 107 to detect hardness of the soil. The tactile sensor detects the hardness of soil by measuring the force required to penetrate or compress the soil. The sensor consists of a sensitive probe or tip that comes into contact with the soil. When pressure is applied, the sensor detects the amount of deformation or displacement of the probe. This deformation is converted into an electrical signal, which is proportional to the hardness or resistance of the soil.

[0033] Based on soil hardness the microcontroller actuate of a DC (Direct Current) electric motor coupled with the blade 107 to rotate the blade 107 in clockwise and counter clockwise direction, in view of digging soil from the point. The DC electric motor rotates a blade 107 in clockwise or counter clockwise directions by controlling the direction of current flow through its armature windings. When a DC voltage is applied, current flows through the armature, creating a magnetic field that interacts with the field produced by permanent magnets or field windings.

[0034] This interaction generates torque, causing the motor’s shaft to rotate. The direction of rotation is determined by reversing the current direction using a commutator, which alternates the polarity of the current in the armature windings. This reversal switches the motor's rotational direction, enabling the blade 107 to rotate both clockwise and counter clockwise in view of digging soil from the point.

[0035] Post digging soil from the user-specified point, the microcontroller activates a motorized hinge 109 attached with bottom portion of the member 108 to provide movement to a plurality of curved-shaped members 110 attached with the hinge 109 in view of dispersing soil from the dug hole, allowing the user to accommodate sapling inside the hole with ease. The motorized hinge 109 operates by integrating a small motor with a hinge 109 mechanism.

[0036] The motor is connected to the hinge 109 via a shaft or gear system that allows rotational movement. The motor applies torque to the hinge 109 , causing it to pivot and change the angle of the connected parts. This controlled motion enables the hinge 109 to move in a precise manner. The hinge 109 can rotate multiple curved-shaped members 110 , directing them to specific positions as required. By adjusting the angle of the curved members 110 , the motorized hinge 109 facilitates the movement necessary for dispersing soil from the dug hole.

[0037] Additionally the device includes a sensing module integrated on lower portion of the member 108 for monitoring parameters including pH level and nutritional content in the of the field sensing module includes a NPK sensor and pH sensor. The NPK sensor works by detecting the concentration of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K) in the soil. It typically uses electrochemical methods where specific electrodes react with ions of nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium in the soil.

[0038] These reactions generate an electrical signal that correlates with the concentration of each nutrient. The sensor then processes this signal and provides real-time data on the levels of NPK in the soil, helping to assess its nutritional content for plant growth. The output helps determine the soil's fertility and aids in optimizing fertilizer application.

[0039] The pH sensor measures the acidity or alkalinity of the soil by detecting the concentration of hydrogen ions (H⁺). It typically consists of a glass electrode and a reference electrode that form an electrochemical cell. When the sensor is inserted into the soil, the hydrogen ions interact with the glass electrode, producing a voltage. This voltage is proportional to the pH level of the soil. The sensor’s microcontroller converts the voltage into a pH value, which is displayed or transmitted for monitoring. This allows the user to maintain the soil’s pH within optimal ranges for plant growth.

[0040] Based on which the microcontroller evaluates a suitable fertilizer for the soil, in accordance to which the microcontroller actuates an electronically controlled spout 112 integrated in a multi-sectioned chamber 111 110 installed on member 108 to dispense said suitable fertilizer store in the chamber 111 on the soil in order to increase fertility of the soil for proper nourishment of the plant.

[0041] The electronically controlled spout 112 for dispensing fertilizer operates through an electric actuator 106 that controls the flow of fertilizer. The actuator 106 is connected to a valve mechanism at the spout 112 , which regulates the fertilizer release. When activated, the actuator 106 moves the valve, either opening or closing to allow fertilizer to flow through the spout 112 . The flow rate is controlled by the actuator's position, ensuring a precise amount of fertilizer is dispensed in order to increase fertility of the soil for proper nourishment of the plant.

[0042] The device includes a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on the body 101 for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding. The LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) works by changing its resistance based on the intensity of light it receives. It is made of semiconductor material whose resistance decreases when exposed to light and increases in darkness. When light falls on the LDR, photons excite the electrons, allowing current to flow more easily, thus reducing its resistance. The LDR is connected to a voltage divider circuit, which converts the change in resistance into a measurable voltage. This voltage is then processed to determine the intensity of light in the surrounding area.

[0043] In case the detected intensity of light in surroundings recedes a threshold level, the microcontroller actuates plurality of LED 113 (Light Emitting Diode) lights configured on the body 101 to glow for providing optimal illumination to the user A plurality of LED 113( light emitting diode) lights work by converting electrical energy into light through a process called electroluminescence.

[0044] When an electrical current flows through the LED 113 , it passes through a semiconductor material that emits photons (light) as electrons recombine with holes in the material. The number of LED 113 and their arrangement determines the overall brightness and coverage area. The LED 113 lights can be control LED 113 by a power driver that adjusts the current to each LED 113 , ensuring uniform illumination. The arrangement of the LED 113 is optimized to provide optimal light distribution, ensuring the user receives consistent and sufficient lighting for the desired environment.

[0045] Lastly, a battery is installed within the device which is connected to the microcontroller that supplies current to all the electrically powered components that needs an amount of electric power to perform their functions and operation in an efficient manner. The battery utilized here, is generally a dry battery which is made up of Lithium-ion material that gives the device a long-lasting as well as an efficient DC (Direct Current) current which helps every component to function properly in an efficient manner. As the device is battery operated and do not need any electrical voltage for functioning. Hence the presence of battery leads to the portability of the device i.e., user is able to place as well as moves the device from one place to another as per the requirements.

[0046] The proposed device works best in the following manner, the device comprises of the elongated body 101 with the handle 102 for user grip, and the free end of the body 101 is arranged with the hollow cylindrical member 108 positioned near the ground surface of the field. The cushioned layered handle 102 ensures comfort during prolonged use. The device is activated via the push button, which closes the circuit, powering the microcontroller to execute pre-fed instructions. Upon activation, the microcontroller engages the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 for capturing and processing surrounding images. These images are displayed on the touch interactive display panel 104 for the user to select planting points. The holographic projection unit 105 projects 3D hologram to guide placement at specified points. The ultrasonic sensor detects body 101 placement by emitting waves and measuring the time for reflection. The microcontroller then activates the hydraulic actuator 106, which extends/retracts to insert the spiral blade 107 into the soil. The tactile sensor detects soil hardness, allowing the DC motor to rotate the blade 107 in both directions. After soil excavation, the motorized hinge 109 moves the curved members 110 109 to disperse soil. The sensing module with the NPK and pH sensors monitors soil quality and provides real-time data. The microcontroller evaluates this data to determine the required fertilizer, which is dispensed by the electronically controlled spout 112 . Additionally, the LDR monitors light intensity, triggering the LED 113 lights to provide optimal illumination when necessary, ensuring the device functions efficiently in varying conditions.

[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) A hand-held hole digging assistive device for plant saplings, comprising:

i) an elongated body 101 having a handle 102 that is accessed by a user for acquiring a grip over said body 101, wherein a free end of said body 101 is arranged with a hollow cylindrical member 108 that is positioned by said user in proximity to a surface of a field;
ii) an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 103 installed on said body 101 for capturing multiple images of surrounding of said body 101, wherein a touch interactive display panel 104 is arranged on said body 101 for displaying said captured images that are accessed by said user for selecting a number of points of said surface where said user desires to plant saplings;
iii) a holographic projection unit 105 mounted on said body 101 configured to project a hologram overs said surface that guides said user is positioning said member 108 at an user-specified point, wherein an ultrasonic sensor is installed on said body 101 for detecting placement of said body 101 on said user specified point, and upon successful detection said microcontroller actuates a hydraulic actuator 106 attached with ceiling of said member 108 to extend and retract in a repetitive manner for inserting a spiral blade 107 attached with said actuator 106 inside said soil;
iv) a tactile sensor integrated with said blade 107 to detect hardness of said soil, wherein based on which said microcontroller regulates actuation of a DC (Direct Current) electric motor coupled with said blade 107 to rotate said blade 107 in clockwise and counterclockwise direction, in view of digging soil from said point;
v) plurality of curved-shaped members 110 109 attached with bottom portion of said member 108 , each via a motorized hinge 109 , wherein said microcontroller post digging soil from said user-specified point, actuates said hinge 109 to provide movement to said members 110 109, in view of dispersing soil from said dug hole, allowing said user to accommodate sapling inside said hole with ease; and
vi) a sensing module integrated on lower portion of said member 108 for monitoring parameters including pH level and nutritional content in soil of said field, based on which said microcontroller evaluates a suitable fertilizer for said soil, in accordance to which said microcontroller actuates an electronically controlled spout 112 integrated in a multi-sectioned chamber 111 110 installed on said member 108 to dispense said suitable fertilizer store in said chamber 111 110 on said soil in order to increase fertility of said soil for proper nourishment of said plant.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said sensing module includes a NPK sensor and pH sensor.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a LDR (Light Dependent Resistor) is configured on said body 101 for monitoring intensity of light in surrounding, and in case said detected intensity of light in surroundings recedes a threshold level, said microcontroller actuates plurality of LED 113 (Light Emitting Diode) lights configured on said body 101 to glow for providing optimal illumination to said user.

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