Description:FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to an earthworm washing device designed for cleaning earthworms by enabling controlled exposure to liquids, managing waste discharge, and monitoring their behavior to ensure effective cleaning, improved hygiene.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Efficient and uniform cleaning of earthworms is essential for commercial and scientific applications, yet existing methods often involve significant manual handling, leading to damage and inconsistent results. Cleaning earthworms presents several challenges. They are delicate, so excessive handling can harm them. Residual soil or organic matter clinging to their bodies makes thorough cleaning difficult. Earthworms secrete mucus, which can create a slimy texture, complicating washing. Sorting them from debris or damaged worms requires patience and precision. Water temperature must be carefully controlled—too hot or too cold can affect their survival. Additionally, contamination from chemicals or pollutants in their environment can pose health risks. If used for consumption or composting, maintaining hygiene is essential. Overall, balancing efficiency and care is key to successful earthworm cleaning.

[0003] Traditionally, earthworm cleaning is performed manually or using rudimentary washing setups involving immersion and agitation in water. These methods require extensive physical handling, risking injury to the earthworms and resulting in non-uniform washing. Water and cleansing agents are often applied indiscriminately, leading to wastage and potential harm. Furthermore, wastewater collection and disposal are typically unmanaged, posing environmental concerns. Manual operation limits efficiency and scalability, while lack of real-time monitoring fails to optimize cleaning conditions. Such limitations highlight the inadequacy of traditional methods for consistent, safe, and eco-friendly earthworm cleaning processes.

[0004] CN113000464A discloses a full-automatic earthworm cleaning machine, which relates to the technical field of earthworm processing and comprises a feeding prewashing unit for dispersing and prewashing clustered earthworms, a cleaning unit for spraying and cleaning the earthworms, a discharging unit for intensively recycling cleaned earthworms and a water supply unit for supplying cleaning water, wherein the feeding prewashing unit, the cleaning unit and the discharging unit are sequentially communicated, and the water supply unit is respectively communicated with the feeding prewashing unit and the cleaning unit through pipelines. The automatic cleaning machine has the advantages of high automation degree, high cleaning efficiency, good cleaning effect, strong practicability, resource saving, simple overall structure, convenience in operation and convenience in popularization.

[0005] CN211134799U discloses a earthworm cleaning device includes a box body, the top of which is an opening; two horizontal bars, both of which are fixedly installed on the top of the box body; a first sliding bar, the first sliding bar slides Installed on one of the cross bars, both ends of the first slide bar extend to the outside of the corresponding cross bar; the second slide bar, the second slide bar is slidably installed on the cross bar away from the first slide bar, the second slide bar The sliding rod extends to the outside of the corresponding cross rod; the annular sleeve is fixedly installed on the end of the first sliding rod and the second sliding rod close to each other, and the bottom of the annular sleeve extends into the box; the cleaning bucket, so The cleaning bucket is slidably installed in the annular sleeve, and the bottom of the cleaning bucket penetrates the annular sleeve and extends into the box. The earthworm cleaning device provided by the utility model has the advantages of convenient use, simple operation, time-saving and labour-saving, and can improve the cleaning efficiency.

[0006] Conventionally, many devices have been developed to facilitate washing of earthworms, however devices mentioned in prior art have limitations pertaining to precise control over rotational speed and liquid dispensing, resulting in inconsistent cleaning and possible damage to delicate biological material. Additionally, the existing devices lack real-time behavioral monitoring or automated adjustments, compromising cleaning effectiveness, and do not offer regulated use of water and shampoo, causing excess consumption and environmental strain.

[0007] In order to overcome the aforementioned drawbacks, there exists a need in the art to develop a device that is capable of enabling uniform and gentle cleaning through controlled rotation and precise application of water and organic shampoo. Additionally, the device is capable of providing real-time monitoring allows dynamic adjustment of washing parameters based on earthworm behavior, enhancing cleaning efficacy and safety.

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 providing a solution for cleaning earthworms efficiently with minimal physical handling.

[0010] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of ensuring consistent and uniform washing of earthworms through controlled rotation and liquid application.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of allowing regulated use of water and organic shampoo in specific proportions for effective and safe cleaning.

[0012] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of supporting automated operation of the cleaning process based on real-time monitoring of earthworm activity.

[0013] Another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of collecting and managing wastewater safely during the washing process, avoiding overflow or spillage.

[0014] Yet another object of the present invention is to develop a device that is capable of enabling remote operation and control of the washing process through a user-friendly interface.

[0015] 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

[0016] The present invention relates to an earthworm washing device developed for cleaning earthworms by regulating liquid flow, observing their movement, and managing waste, with the aim of achieving thorough cleaning, better hygiene, and minimal physical handling for subsequent use or processing.

[0017] According to an embodiment of the present invention, an earthworm washing device is disclosed comprising of a rotating platform adapted to receive a perforated bucket containing a lump of earthworms, the platform is rotatably mounted on a screw leveller base for horizontal alignment, the perforated rotating platform is driven by a motor configured to provide uniform and continuous rotation during washing, a circular sprinkler ring concentrically positioned above the perforated platform, the sprinkler ring comprising a plurality of nozzles configured to spray liquids onto the earthworms, the sprinkler nozzles are distributed radially and oriented downward to ensure 360-degree coverage of the lump of earthworms, at least two reservoir chamber including a water reservoir and an organic shampoo reservoir, each operatively connected to the sprinkler ring, the reservoirs include flow control valves and temperature-maintaining sensors for regulated dispensing of water and shampoo, the flow control valves are electronically operated and coordinated by the control unit to precisely control the volume and sequence of water and shampoo dispensed, a wastewater collection vessel located beneath the perforated platform, adapted to collect the discharged liquid from the platform and configured for either continuous or batch discharge via an integrated valve, the perforated bucket placed on the rotating platform allows downward flow of waste liquids into the wastewater vessel while retaining the earthworms.

[0018] According to another embodiment of the present invention, the present invention further includes a monitoring assembly comprising; a centrally positioned AI/IR (Artificial Intelligence/ Infrared) camera equipped with body temperature sensing and movement tracking capabilities, the AI/IR camera comprises an image processing unit capable of detecting movement patterns of the earthworms, the control unit accordingly estimates temperature distribution across the platform, enabling feedback-based control of water and shampoo dispensing, a dynamically adjustable LED (Light Emitting Diode) light capable of altering color and intensity to stimulate earthworm movement, and the LED light changes color and intensity in real-time based on feedback from the AI/IR camera to stimulate natural migratory behavior of earthworms for enhanced washing, a camera-light stand adapted to support and align the AI/IR camera and LED light over the rotating platform, the LED light changes color and intensity in real-time based on feedback from the AI/IR camera to stimulate natural migratory behavior of earthworms for enhanced washing, a control unit operatively connected to the camera, LED light, flow valves, and temperature sensors, the control unit facilitates automated monitoring and adjustment during the washing operation, a user-interface is inbuilt in a computing unit accessed by a user configured to allow the user to select a desired ratio of water to organic shampoo, along with allowing the user to remotely operate the device, the wastewater collection vessel includes an overflow outlet to prevent spillage during batch or continuous operations.

[0019] While the invention has been described and shown with particular reference to the preferred embodiment, it will be apparent that variations might be possible that would fall within the scope of the present invention.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0020] These and other features, aspects, and advantages of the present invention will become better understood with regard to the following description, appended claims, and accompanying drawings where:
Figure 1 illustrates an isometric view of an earthworm washing device; and
Figure 2 illustrates a top view of the camera-light stand.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0021] The following description includes the preferred best mode of one embodiment of the present invention. It will be clear from this description of the invention that the invention is not limited to these illustrated embodiments but that the invention also includes a variety of modifications and embodiments thereto. Therefore, the present description should be seen as illustrative and not limiting. While the invention is susceptible to various modifications and alternative constructions, it should be understood, that there is no intention to limit the invention to the specific form disclosed, but, on the contrary, the invention is to cover all modifications, alternative constructions, and equivalents falling within the spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims.

[0022] In any embodiment described herein, the open-ended terms "comprising," "comprises,” and the like (which are synonymous with "including," "having” and "characterized by") may be replaced by the respective partially closed phrases "consisting essentially of," consists essentially of," and the like or the respective closed phrases "consisting of," "consists of, the like.

[0023] As used herein, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” designate both the singular and the plural, unless expressly stated to designate the singular only.

[0024] The present invention relates to an earthworm washing device developed to facilitate the cleaning of earthworms by controlling liquid exposure, monitoring their response, and handling waste efficiently to promote cleanliness, maintain hygiene, and limit direct handling before further processing or use.

[0025] Referring to Figure 1 and 2, an isometric view of an earthworm washing device, and a top view of the camera-light stand is illustrated, comprising of a rotating platform 101 adapted to receive a perforated bucket 102, the platform 101 is rotatably mounted on a screw leveller base 103 for horizontal alignment, a circular sprinkler ring 104 concentrically positioned above the perforated platform 101, the sprinkler ring 104 comprising a plurality of nozzles 105, a water reservoir 106 and an organic shampoo reservoir 107, each operatively connected to the sprinkler ring 104, a wastewater collection vessel 108 located beneath the perforated platform 101, a monitoring assembly 109 comprising; a centrally positioned AI/IR (Artificial Intelligence/ Infrared) camera 110 mounted on camera-light stand 112, a dynamically adjustable LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 111 installed with the camera-light stand, a camera-light stand 112 supporting the AI/IR camera 110 and LED light 111 over the rotating platform 101, and an overflow outlet 113 integrated in the wastewater collection vessel 108.

[0026] The disclosed device herein comprises of a rotating platform 101 coupled to a motorized drive assembly 109 configured to impart uniform and continuous rotary motion. The platform 101 securely receives and retain a perforated bucket 102 and is configured to sustain balanced rotation under load. The platform 101 is rotatably installed on a screw leveller base 103 for horizontal alignment. Upon activation by an inbuilt control unit, the motor transmits torque to the platform 101 via a mechanical linkage, enabling consistent angular displacement.

[0027] The perforated bucket 102 mentioned herein is a cylindrical container fabricated with uniformly distributed apertures over its surface to allow liquid permeation. When loaded with a lump of earthworms and placed on the rotating platform 101, the bucket 102 facilitates the withdrawal of wash water and the simultaneous withdrawal of soil and debris. The centrifugal action induced by platform 101 rotation accelerates separation, whereby finer particulates are expelled through the perforations. The bucket 102 maintains the integrity of the biological matter while permitting thorough washing.

[0028] The screw leveller base 103 herein comprises an adjustable mechanical foundation with threaded shafts integrated into the base 103 support structure. Each screw is independently operable and rotatable via manual or automated means, thereby allowing incremental vertical displacement. This displacement enables precision leveling of the platform 101 surface relative to the horizontal plane, ensuring operational stability.

[0029] During setup, the screws are rotated to compensate for surface irregularities and maintain the perpendicularity of the rotating axis. Once the screw is leveled, the base 103 preserves platform 101 alignment during dynamic operation, minimizing vibrational anomalies and ensuring consistent mechanical performance throughout the washing cycle. A circular sprinkler ring 104 mounted above the perforated rotating platform 101 and incorporates a plurality of nozzles 105 positioned at equidistant intervals along its circumference to ensure radial uniformity.

[0030] Upon activation by the control unit, pressurized liquid is delivered through the ring 104, discharging simultaneously from all nozzles 105 to achieve comprehensive 360-degree coverage. The downward orientation and spatial distribution of nozzles 105 allow targeted spraying over the entire surface area of the earthworm lump. This configuration facilitates consistent hydration, dislodgement of soil particles, and assists in the cleaning process during platform 101 rotation.

[0031] The nozzles 105 work by utilizing electrical energy to automize the flow solution in a controlled flow pattern by converting the pressure energy of a fluid into kinetic energy, which increases the fluid's velocity to spray. Upon actuation of nozzle by the microcontroller, the electric motor or the pump pressurizes the incoming liquid, increasing its pressure significantly. High pressure enables the solution to be sprayed out with a high force, thus ensure 360-degree coverage of the lump of earthworms.

[0032] A water reservoir 106 is connected to the sprinkler ring 104, herein functions as a dedicated containment unit for storing and supplying water to the sprinkler ring 104. The water reservoir 106 is constructed of non-corrosive material and connected to the ring 104 via a conduit. The water reservoir 106 include an electronically actuated flow control valve regulates the release of water in response to signals from the control unit.

[0033] During operation, the water reservoir 106 maintains stable internal pressure and provides continuous flow as required. A temperature-maintaining sensors within the water reservoir 106 monitor and stabilize water temperature to a predetermined range, ensuring optimal washing conditions. The controlled dispensing of water ensures efficient resource use and consistent cleansing throughout the washing cycle. An organic shampoo reservoir 107 connected to the sprinkler ring 104 stores a biodegradable cleansing solution intended for use in the washing of earthworms.

[0034] The shampoo reservoir 107 herein is equipped with a sealed chamber and is fluidly connected to the sprinkler ring 104 via a designated conduit line. The electronically controlled flow valve governs the timed and volumetric release of shampoo, coordinated by the control unit. The temperature-maintaining sensors regulate the internal temperature of the shampoo to preserve its consistency and efficacy. During operation, the reservoir 107 enables programmable introduction of the cleansing solution in a defined sequence, ensuring uniform application across the organic matter for effective soil removal and disinfection.

[0035] The flow control valves herein are electronically actuated assembly 109 positioned along the fluid lines connecting the water and shampoo reservoirs 107 to the sprinkler ring 104. Each valve operates based on real-time signals from the control unit, which governs timing, volume, and sequencing of liquid discharge. When activated by the control unit, the valve modulates internal aperture dimensions to permit calibrated flow, thereby ensuring precision dispensing. The valves switch between open, partially open, and closed positions to meet requirement. This coordinated actuation allows for seamless transition between washing phases, prevents cross-contamination of fluids, and maintains consistent application pressure through the nozzles 105.

[0036] The temperature-maintaining sensors herein are embedded within both the water and shampoo reservoirs 107 and continuously monitor the internal fluid temperature. These sensors are electronically linked to a thermal regulation module, which activates heating or cooling elements as necessary to maintain fluids within predefined operational ranges.

[0037] During the washing cycle, the sensors detect any deviations from target temperature thresholds and relay corrective signals to maintain thermal stability. This functionality ensures that both water and shampoo are dispensed at optimal temperatures, preserving fluid characteristics and enhancing cleaning efficacy. Real-time monitoring prevents thermal shock to organic matter and supports consistent performance.

[0038] A wastewater collection vessel 108 is positioned directly beneath the perforated rotating platform 101 and functions as the primary receptacle for liquids discharged during the washing cycle. As the earthworms are washed, waste liquids including soil-laden water and organic shampoo descend through the perforations of the rotating bucket 102 and platform 101 into the vessel 108. The vessel 108 is structurally adapted to accommodate both batch and continuous collection modes.

[0039] The integrated valve is fluidly connected to the base 103 of the wastewater collection vessel 108 and facilitates controlled withdrawal of accumulated liquid. Configurable for either continuous or batch mode, the valve operates under manual or automated actuation and responds to control unit signals. In continuous mode, the valve maintains a partially open state, allowing steady drainage. In batch mode, it remains sealed until the liquid reaches a defined volume or time threshold, at which point it opens to discharge. The valve ensures regulated outflow, prevents overflow, and enables downstream treatment or disposal. Leak-proof sealing and corrosion resistance are maintained during cycles.

[0040] A monitoring assembly 109 comprising integrates sensor, illumination, and support components to optimize washing of earthworms. An AI/IR camera 110 equipped with camera-light stand 112 continuously captures thermal and visual data, processed in real-time by an image processing unit to monitor earthworm movement and temperature distribution. Feedback generated guides the control unit in dynamically adjusting water and shampoo dispensing. The centrally positioned AI/IR (Artificial Intelligence/Infrared) camera 110 captures high-resolution infrared and visual images centered above the rotating platform 101.

[0041] The camera 110 detects variations in body temperature and tracks movement patterns of earthworms across the platform 101 surface. The embedded image processing unit analyzes this data in real-time, identifying temperature distribution and behavioral dynamics. This information is relayed to the control unit, which adjusts washing parameters such as flow rates and shampoo concentration accordingly. The camera’s continuous feedback enables adaptive control to optimize washing efficacy, prevent harm to earthworms, and maintain uniform treatment conditions.

[0042] Simultaneously, a dynamically adjustable LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 111 alters its color and intensity based on AI/IR data to stimulate earthworm migratory behavior, enhancing soil removal The LED is a two-lead semiconductor light source also known as p-n junction which produce the lighting when constant voltage is supplied across the diode. When the voltage is supplied across the diode, the electrons recombine with the electrons hole in the diode which result in conversion of electron into photons which is another form of light.

[0043] The camera-light stand 112 herein maintains precise alignment and stability of the components above the rotating platform 101, ensuring effective monitoring and stimulation throughout the washing cycle. The camera-light stand 112 provides a rigid structural framework that supports and aligns the AI/IR camera 110 and LED light 111 concentrically above the rotating platform 101. The stand 112 is configured for height and angular adjustability, enabling precise positioning to optimize field of view and illumination coverage. The stable construction of the stand 112 minimizes vibrations and movement during operation, maintaining consistent monitoring and light delivery.

[0044] A user interface is installed within the computing unit accessed by the user that includes but is not limited to a smartphone and laptop for enabling the user to input commands regarding the selection of a desired ratio of water to organic shampoo. The computing unit is linked with the control unit via an integrated communication module that includes but is not limited to a GSM (Global System for Mobile Communication) module, a Wi-Fi module, or a Bluetooth module, which is capable of establishing a wireless network between the microcontroller and the computing unit. The computing unit used herein is capable of computing operations according to the user’s desire with the help of the user interface.

[0045] Additionally, the control unit functions as the central processing and command hub, operatively linked to the AI/IR camera 110, LED light 111, flow control valves, and temperature sensors. The control unit receives real-time data from sensors and the camera 110, processes behavioral and environmental inputs, and automatically adjusts operational parameters. The control unit sequences the flow of water and organic shampoo via electronically actuated valves, modulates LED light 111 color and intensity based on detected earthworm activity, and maintains fluid temperature within preset limits. The control unit governs the entire washing cycle from initiation to completion without requiring manual intervention, ensuring optimized and consistent cleaning performance, while operating in fully automated mode.

[0046] An overflow outlet 113 is positioned near the upper boundary of the wastewater collection vessel 108 to prevent liquid spillage during both batch and continuous discharge operations. When the liquid level within the vessel 108 rises beyond a predetermined threshold, excess wastewater is diverted through the outlet 113, thereby maintaining vessel 108 capacity within safe operational limits. This controlled overflow ensures uninterrupted collection without risk of spillage or flooding. The outlet 113 is connected to an external drainage or recycling unit, facilitating safe disposal or reuse of excess liquids and maintaining hygienic and environmental compliance throughout the washing cycle.

[0047] 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 preferably 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.

[0048] The present invention works best in the following manner, where the control unit initiates the washing cycle by activating the motor to rotate the perforated platform 101 is mounted on the screw leveller base 103, ensuring uniform distribution of earthworms within the perforated bucket 102. The control unit then opens the electronically actuated flow control valve of the water reservoir 106 to allow temperature-regulated water to pass through the circular sprinkler ring 104, which is concentrically positioned above the platform 101 and fitted with radially distributed nozzles 105 for 360-degree spray coverage. Following an initial rinse, the control unit activates the flow control valve of the organic shampoo reservoir 107 to dispense a precise volume of shampoo through the same sprinkler ring 104. Simultaneously, the AI/IR camera 110 mounted on the camera-light stand 112 monitors earthworm movement and temperature distribution, transmitting real-time feedback to the control unit. The dynamically adjustable LED light 111, positioned alongside the camera 110, varies its color and intensity in response to behavioral cues, stimulating natural migratory activity to facilitate effective cleansing. Discharged wastewater is filtered through the perforated bucket 102 and collected in the wastewater vessel 108, which includes an overflow outlet 113 and an integrated valve for regulated drainage. The control unit maintains the cycle until optimal cleanliness is detected, completing the automated process without manual intervention.

[0049] Although the field of the invention has been described herein with limited reference to specific embodiments, this description is not meant to be construed in a limiting sense. Various modifications of the disclosed embodiments, as well as alternate embodiments of the invention, will become apparent to persons skilled in the art upon reference to the description of the invention. , C , Claims:1) An earthworm washing device, comprising:

i) a rotating platform 101 adapted to receive a perforated bucket 102 containing a lump of earthworms, wherein said platform 101 is rotatably mounted on a screw leveller base 103 for horizontal alignment;
ii) a circular sprinkler ring 104 concentrically positioned above the perforated platform 101, said sprinkler ring 104 comprising a plurality of nozzles 105 configured to spray liquids onto the earthworms;
iii) at least two reservoir chamber including a water reservoir 106 and an organic shampoo reservoir 107, each operatively connected to the sprinkler ring 104, wherein the reservoirs include flow control valves and temperature-maintaining sensors for regulated dispensing of water and shampoo;
iv) a wastewater collection vessel 108 located beneath the perforated platform 101, adapted to collect the discharged liquid from the platform 101 and configured for either continuous or batch discharge via an integrated valve;
v) a monitoring assembly 109 comprising:

a) a centrally positioned AI/IR (Artificial Intelligence/ Infrared) camera 110 equipped with body temperature sensing and movement tracking capabilities,
b) a dynamically adjustable LED (Light Emitting Diode) light 111 capable of altering color and intensity to stimulate earthworm movement, and
c) a camera-light stand 112 adapted to support and align the AI/IR camera 110 and LED light 111 over the rotating platform 101.

vi) a control unit operatively connected to the camera 110, LED light 111, flow valves, and temperature sensors, wherein said control unit facilitates automated monitoring and adjustment during the washing operation.

2) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the perforated rotating platform 101 is driven by a motor configured to provide uniform and continuous rotation during washing.

3) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the perforated bucket 102 placed on the rotating platform 101 allows downward flow of waste liquids into the wastewater vessel 108 while retaining the earthworms.

4) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the nozzles 105 are distributed radially and oriented downward to ensure 360-degree coverage of the lump of earthworms.

5) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the flow control valves are electronically operated and coordinated by the control unit to precisely control the volume and sequence of water and shampoo dispensed.

6) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein a user-interface is inbuilt in a computing unit accessed by a user configured to allow said user to select a desired ratio of water to organic shampoo, along with allowing the user to remotely operate the device.

7) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the AI/IR camera 110 comprises an image processing unit capable of detecting movement patterns of the earthworms, said control unit accordingly estimates temperature distribution across the platform 101, enabling feedback-based control of water and shampoo dispensing.

8) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the LED light 111 changes color and intensity in real-time based on feedback from the AI/IR camera 110 to stimulate natural migratory behavior of earthworms for enhanced washing.

9) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the control unit is configured to operate in automated mode, the flow of water and shampoo is sequenced automatically, light conditions are varied according to sensed earthworm behavior, and a complete washing cycle is achieved without manual intervention.

10) The device as claimed in claim 1, wherein the wastewater collection vessel 108 includes an overflow outlet 113 to prevent spillage during batch or continuous operations.