Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an automated pebble collection device that is capable of collecting pebbles from the ground surface on the basis of the voice command given by the user, gripping the pebbles by detecting the presence and the dimensions of the pebble for storing them and detecting the weight of the collected pebbles and alerting the user to store pebble if the weight exceeds a threshold value.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Pebble collection from the ground is necessary for maintaining a clean and safe outdoor environment. Removing pebbles also prevent potential tripping hazards for pedestrians and vehicles. Additionally, keeping the ground clear of pebbles help maintain the integrity of pathways and driveways, preventing damage from uneven surfaces. Regularly collecting pebbles also promotes a neat and organized outdoor space, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal of the area. In addition, removing pebbles also prevent damage to lawn equipment such as lawnmowers and trimmers. It is important to regularly inspect and remove pebbles to ensure a well-maintained outdoor space. By staying proactive in pebble removal, property owners create a welcoming and functional outdoor space for themselves and visitors to enjoy. Overall, maintaining a pebble-free environment not only improves safety but also contributes to the longevity of outdoor surfaces and equipment.

[0003] Traditional methods of collecting pebbles include manually picking them or using a small net to scoop them up from the ground or riverbeds. Another common method is to use a sifting screen to separate pebbles from other debris, such as sand or dirt. These methods are time-consuming and labor-intensive, often requiring individuals to spend hours bent over searching for pebbles as well as causing strain on the back and shoulders.

[0004] CN205510713U discloses about an invention that has a utility model belongs to the technical field of the agricultural machine technique and specifically relates to a stone collector is related to. Include: walking frame, digging mechanism, native stone separating mechanism and stone collector construct, digging mechanism sets up the one end in the walking frame for topsoil has been shoveled, soil stone separating mechanism set up in the walking frame, and lie in the low reaches of digging mechanism for it digs out the soil that comes and carries out native stone and separate to receive digging mechanism, the stone collector structure sets up in the walking frame, and lies in native stone separating mechanism's low reaches for collect the gravel that native stone separating mechanism isolated. Utilize the automatic separation of accomplishing soil and stone of stone collector to reduce artificial input, the mechanized farming of being convenient for improves work efficiency, and it is very obvious to improve the soil property effect, is showing improvement economic benefits.

[0005] CN207639101U discloses about an invention that has a utility model provides a be applied to the stone collector structure in special agricultural equipment field, frame lower extreme of stone collector structure set up forming relieved tooth, frame upper end sets up connects member, it sets up separation sieve to connect between member and forming relieved tooth, separation sieve is including multichannel sieve tooth, set up between every adjacent twice sieve teeth gap, frame upper end still sets up installation axle, set up on the installation axle a plurality of separation rotor,set up a plurality of groups of teeth on every separation rotor, installation axle is connected with the motor, stone collector structure, simple structure, low in manufacturing cost can high -efficiently realize the separation of gravel and earth reliably, reaches the effect that the gravel was come out by quick sieving, makes stone collector structure compactness, simple operation, firmly reliably simultaneously.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices are available in the market for collecting pebble. However, the cited invention lacks in collecting pebbles on spoke command as well as unable to notify the user if the weight exceeds the threshold limit along with unable to detect the dimension of the collected pebbles.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is develop a device which is able to detect the weight of the collected pebbles and notify the user to store the pebble if the weight surpasses a threshold value, as well as capable of detecting the presence and size of the pebbles, collecting them from the ground in response to a voice command from the user.

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 collecting pebbles from the ground surface on the basis of the voice command given by the user.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of gripping the pebbles by detecting the presence and the dimensions of the pebble.

[0011] Yet, another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of detecting the weight of the collected pebbles and alerts the user to store pebble if the weight exceeds a threshold value.

[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 automated pebble collection device that collects pebbles from the ground surface on the basis of the user’s voice command and detects the weight of the collected pebbles and alerts the user to store pebbles if the weight exceeds a threshold value.

[0014] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an automated pebble collection device comprises of, a platform developed to be positioned on a ground surface from where pebbles are to be collected and installed with a storage chamber, a pair of motorized track wheels are installed underneath the platform to provide movement to the platform across the ground surface, a microphone mounted on the platform for receiving voice command of a user regarding collection of the pebbles from the surface, an inbuilt microcontroller linked with the microphone processes the voice commands and activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit mounted on the platform paired with a processor for capturing and multiple images of the ground surface for detecting presence of the pebbles over the surface, a rectangular frame installed adjacently to the platform by means of a pair of telescopically operated links that are actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position the frame over the pebbles, as detected via the imaging unit, the frame is configured with a plurality of rods, each of the rod is equipped with a plurality of pneumatic pins in a crisscross manner to grip the pebble from the surface, the telescopically operated link 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 the link.

[0015] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the proposed device further comprises of, an ultrasonic sensor embedded on the frame for detecting dimension of the detected pebble, based on the detected dimension the microcontroller actuates the pins to extend for gripping the pebbles and upon gripping the pebbles, the microcontroller actuates a first pair of motorized ball and socket joint installed in between the link and the rods to provide movement to the frame to lift the frame and transfer the frame into the storage chamber, thus storing the pebbles securely, a plurality of motorized ball and socket joint installed in between the rods and frames for providing movement to the rods for collecting the pebble from the surface, a plurality of vibrating units is installed on the rods to provide vibrational movement to the rods for effectively digging out pebbles trapped within soil, a weight sensor embedded in the storage chamber to detect weight of the collected pebbles, in case the detected weight exceeds a threshold value, the microcontroller activates a speaker mounted on the platform to notify the user to collect the pebble from the chamber.

[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 of an automated pebble collection 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 automated pebble collection device that is capable of collecting pebbles from the ground surface on the basis of the voice command given by the user and gripping the pebbles by detecting the presence and the dimensions of the pebble for storing them.

[0022] Referring to Figure 1, an isometric view of an automated pebble collection device is illustrated, comprising a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a ground surface and installed with a storage chamber 102, a pair of motorized track wheels 103 are installed underneath the platform 101, a microphone 104 mounted on the platform 101, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 mounted on the platform 101, a rectangular frame 106 installed adjacently to the platform 101 by means of a pair of telescopically operated links 107, the frame 106 is configured with a plurality of rods 108, each of the rod 108 is equipped with a plurality of pneumatic pins 109, a first pair of motorized ball and socket joint 110 installed in between the link 107 and the rods 108, plurality of motorized ball and socket joint 111 installed in between the rods 108 and frame 106, vibrating units 112 is installed on the rods 108.

[0023] The device disclosed herein employs a platform 101 that is designed to be positioned on a ground surface from where pebbles are to be collected. The platform 101 is preferably made up of but not limited to stainless steel which provides stability and resistance to corrosion.

[0024] For activating the device, the user need to press a push button arranged on the platform 101 which in turn activates all the related device for performing the desired task. After pressing the button, a closed electrical circuit is formed and current start to flow that powers an inbuilt microcontroller to allow all the linked components to perform their respective task upon actuation.

[0025] A storage chamber 102 is arranged with the platform 101 which stores the collected pebble. To provide movement to the platform 101 across the ground surface, a pair of motorized track wheels 103 are installed underneath the platform 101. The motorized track wheels 103 are designed to enhance mobility and traction in challenging terrains. Motorized track wheels are valued for their durability, efficiency, and ability to navigate difficult environments with ease. Unlike conventional wheels, these tracks distribute the vehicle's weight across a larger surface area, reducing ground pressure and allowing smoother movement over soft, uneven, or slippery surfaces like mud, snow, or sand. They are powered by a motor that drives the continuous loop of reinforced rubber or metal tracks, providing stability and better grip compared to traditional tires.

[0026] For receiving voice command of a user regarding collection of the pebbles from the surface, a microphone 104 is mounted on the platform 101. The voice command of the user is processed by the microcontroller that is linked with the microphone 104. The microphone 104 receives the voice command from the user for collection of the pebbles and covert the received sound waves into electrical signals. The signals are analog in nature. These analog signals are then digitized using an analog-to-digital converter (ADC) for further processing. The digital data undergoes pre-processing, including noise reduction and filtering, to improve clarity by eliminating background noise. The cleaned signal is passed for speech recognition powered by artificial intelligence, which analyzes the input to detect keywords or phrases. Once recognized, the microcontroller maps the command and triggers the collection of the pebbles.

[0027] Further, an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 that is mounted on the platform 101 is activated by the microcontroller for capturing multiple images of the ground surface for detecting presence of the pebbles over the surface. The artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 for capturing and processing multiple images of the vehicle consists of a camera and a processor, where the camera comprises of a frame 106, electronic shutter, lens, lens aperture and image sensor, working in the sequential manner to capture the image of the user. The imaging unit 105 at the core comprises of deep learning architectures such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), trained on vast datasets to detect patterns and features of image. The data is processed using artificial intelligence (AI) protocol to perform functions of object detection, image enhancement, segmentation and classification. Hence, the presence of the pebbles over the surface is determined.

[0028] Adjacent to the platform 101, a rectangular frame 106 is installed by help of a pair of telescopically operated links 107. These links 107 are actuated by the microcontroller to extend and position the frame 106 over the pebbles as detected by the imaging unit 105. The telescopically operated links 107 are designed to extend and retract smoothly, used for variable-length linkages. These links 107 consist of nested tubular sections, which slide within one another, driven by mechanisms like pneumatic actuators. When activated, the driving force extends or retracts the telescopic sections, enabling precise control over their length. The telescopic links 107 provide a versatile solution for need of extended reach or adaptability. Their design ensures efficient operation, minimal space consumption, and reliable performance under varying loads therefore, helpful in extending and positioning the frame 106 over the pebbles.

[0029] The telescopically operated link 107 is 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 the link 107. The pneumatic unit utilizes compressed air to power the extension and retraction of rods, bars, or links 107, enabling mechanical movement. The working begins with an air compressor, which generates and stores pressurized air. This air is directed through air valves, which control the flow and direction of the air based on system requirements. The pressurized air enters an air cylinder, where it acts on a piston inside the cylinder. When air is introduced to one side of the piston, it pushes the piston forward, causing the rod connected to it to extend. Conversely, when air is directed to the opposite side, the piston retracts, pulling the rod back. The valves orchestrate this switching of air flow, ensuring smooth and controlled motion.

[0030] The rectangular frame 106 is configured with a plurality of rods 108 where every rod 108 is equipped with a plurality of pneumatic pins 109 that are arranged in a crisscross manner for gripping the pebble from the ground surface. The pneumatic pins 109 consist of a cylindrical shaft that extends or retracts within a housing when air pressure is applied, controlled by valves or actuators. Pneumatic pins 109 are valued for their speed, reliability, and ease of integration thereby reducing manual intervention while maintaining high precision and operational efficiency. Hence, the pneumatic pins 109 securely grip the pebble from the ground surface.

[0031] In between the rods 108 and the frame 106, a plurality of motorized ball and socket joint 111 is installed to provide movement to the rods 108 for collecting the pebble from the surface. The motorized ball-and-socket joint enables controlled rotational movement in multiple directions. It consists of a spherical ball seated within a socket, allowing free motion around its center. The motorization is achieved by integrating actuators, which drive the movement of the joint. Sensors and microcontroller monitor the position and orientation of the ball, enabling precise adjustments based on input commands. So, the required movement is given to the rods 108 for collecting the pebble from the surface.

[0032] For detecting the dimensions of the detected pebble, an ultrasonic sensor is embedded on the frame 106. Based on the detected dimensions, the microcontroller actuates the pneumatic pins 109 to extend for gripping the pebbles. The ultrasonic sensor determines the dimensions by emitting high-frequency sound waves and measuring the time it takes for the echoes to return after bouncing off the pebble. The sensor includes a transmitter to emit sound waves and a receiver to detect the reflected waves. By calculating the time interval between emission and reception and using the speed of sound, it determines the distance to the pebble. For dimension measurement, multiple sensors or a scanning mechanism gather distance data from various points on the pebble’s surface. This information is processed to calculate the pebble’s size and then the pins 109 grip the pebbles.

[0033] A plurality of vibrating units 112 is mounted on the rods 108 to provide vibrational movement to the rods 108 for effectively digging out pebbles which are trapped within the soil. The vibrational units work by generating controlled vibrations. These units consist of a vibrating element, like a plate or feeder, driven by an actuator such as an electric motor or pneumatic device. The actuator creates oscillatory motion, transferring energy to the vibrating element at a specific frequency and amplitude to effectively dig out the pebbles which are trapped within the soil.

[0034] Upon gripping the pebbles, a first pair of motorized ball and socket joint 110 that is installed in between the link 107 and the rods 108, provides the movement to the frame 106 to lift the frame 106 and transfer the pebbles into the storage chamber 102 thereby securely storing the pebbles. The motorized ball and socket joint 110 works in the same manner as explained above and hence, transferring the pebbles in the storage chamber 102.

[0035] In the storage chamber 102, a weight sensor is embedded for determining the weight of the collected pebbles. The weight sensor is based on a load cell which determines the weight by converting the force exerted into an electrical signal. When a load is placed on the sensor, it applies pressure to a strain gauge, a component that deforms slightly under stress. This deformation causes a change in the electrical resistance of the strain gauge, which is proportional to the force applied. The sensor's electronic circuitry then amplifies and converts this resistance change into a readable weight measurement. The weight sensors are widely used due to their high accuracy, reliability, and ability to handle varying loads. So, the weight sensor here determines the weight of the collected pebbles.

[0036] If the determined weight of the collected pebbles exceeds a threshold value, the microcontroller activates a speaker that is mounted on the platform 101 for notifying the user to collect the pebble from the chamber 102. The speaker converts electrical signals into sound waves using a combination of mechanical and electromagnetic components. The speaker consists of a diaphragm, a voice coil, a magnet assembly, a suspension system, and a housing or frame 106. The electrical audio signal passes through the voice coil, creating a varying magnetic field around it. The field interacts with the fixed magnetic field of the permanent magnet assembly, causing the voice coil to move back and forth. The diaphragm, which is attached to the voice coil, vibrates in response to this movement, pushing and pulling air to create sound waves. The suspension system keeps the diaphragm and voice coil aligned while allowing free movement. The housing provides structural support and helps direct sound effectively. Together, these components translate electrical signals into audible sound, notifying the user to collect the pebble from the chamber 102.

[0037] For supplying power to electrical and electronically operated components, a battery is associated with the device. The battery powers electrical and electronic components by converting stored chemical energy into electrical energy. The battery’s terminals provide a voltage difference, allowing current to flow through circuits that supplies consistent energy to actuate and operate components like motors, sensors and microcontrollers, ensuring seamless functionality.

[0038] The proposed device works best in the following manner, where the platform 101 is positioned on a ground surface from where pebbles are to be collected in the storage chamber 102 , the pair of motorized track wheels 103 to provide movement to the platform 101 across the ground surface, the microphone 104 for receiving voice command of a user regarding collection of the pebbles from the surface, the artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 for capturing multiple images of the ground surface for detecting presence of the pebbles over the surface, the rectangular frame 106 installed adjacently to the platform 101 by means of a pair of telescopically operated links 107 for extending and positioning the frame 106 over the pebbles, the pneumatic unit includes an air compressor, air cylinder, air valves and piston which works in collaboration to aid in extension and retraction of the link 107, the plurality of rods 108 where each rod 108 is equipped with a multiple pneumatic pins 109 in a crisscross manner to grip the pebble from the surface, the ultrasonic sensor for detecting dimension of the detected pebble, the first pair of motorized ball and socket joint 110 to provide movement to the frame 106 to lift the frame 106 and transfer pebbles into the storage chamber 102, the plurality of motorized ball and socket joint 111 for providing movement to the rods 108 for collecting the pebble from the surface, the plurality of vibrating units 112 to provide vibrational movement to the rods 108 for effectively digging out pebbles trapped within soil, the weight sensor to detect weight of the collected pebbles where in case the detected weight exceeds a threshold value than the speaker notifies the user to collect the pebble from the chamber 102.

[0039] 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 automated pebble collection device, comprising:

i) a platform 101 developed to be positioned on a ground surface from where pebbles are to be collected and installed with a storage chamber 102, wherein a pair of motorized track wheels 103 are installed underneath said platform 101 to provide movement to said platform 101 across said ground surface;
ii) a microphone 104 mounted on said platform 101 for receiving voice command of a user regarding collection of said pebbles from said surface, wherein an inbuilt microcontroller linked with said microphone 104 processes said voice commands and activates an artificial intelligence-based imaging unit 105 mounted on said platform 101 paired with a processor for capturing and multiple images of said ground surface for detecting presence of said pebbles over said surface;
iii) a rectangular frame 106 installed adjacently to said platform 101 by means of a pair of telescopically operated links 107 that are actuated by said microcontroller to extend and position said frame 106 over said detected pebbles via said imaging unit 105, wherein said frame 106 is configured with a plurality of rods 108, each of said rod 108 is equipped with a plurality of pneumatic pins 109 in a crisscross manner to grip said pebble from said surface; and
iv) an ultrasonic sensor embedded on said frame 106 for detecting dimension of said detected pebble, wherein based on said detected dimension said microcontroller actuates said pins 109 to extend for gripping said pebbles and upon gripping said pebbles, said microcontroller actuates a first pair of motorized ball and socket joint 110 installed in between said link 107 and said rods 108 to provide movement to said frame 106 to lift said frame 106 and transfer said frame 106 into said storage chamber 102, thus storing said pebbles securely.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of motorized ball and socket joint 111 installed in between said rods 108 and frames 106 for providing movement to said rods 108 for collecting said pebble from said surface.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a plurality of vibrating units 112 is installed on said rods 108 to provide vibrational movement to said rods 108 for effectively digging out pebbles trapped within soil.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a weight sensor embedded in said storage chamber 102 to detect weight of said collected pebbles, in case said detected weight exceeds a threshold value, said microcontroller activates a speaker mounted on said platform 101 to notify said user to collect said pebble from said chamber 102.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein said telescopically operated link 107 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 link 107.

6) 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.